Scott Taylor looks ahead to 'dream' testimonial fixture as Grand Final winner reflects on 'unbelievable' season

The ex-Wigan prop, who retired at the end of 2023, will see his two former clubs go head-to-head to celebrate his illustrious 15-year career.

Taylor, 32, made more than 300 career appearances having made his debut in 2009 with Hull KR, winning the double with the Warriors in 2013 to lift the Challenge Cup and Super League trophy under then coach Shaun Wane.

He returned home and joined his boyhood club in 2016, going on to enjoy an eight-year spell that included co-captaincy and back-to-back Challenge Cup wins in 2016 and 2017 - the latter over Wigan.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” Taylor said of his testimonial.

“When I first sat down with my committee, probably this time last year, we spoke about the testimonial and what we’d do and the big one being the game and who we’d like.

“Straight away, I said the dream would be to be at home against Wigan.

“It’s a team I had success with and a team I respect so much and still have a lot of good relationships with.

“I’m overwhelmed and buzzing that it’s all come off.

“It’s been a year in the planning for this game and I’m excited for it to unfold this Sunday and be a part of it.”

Taylor made 54 appearances for Wigan across two seasons, featuring from the interchange bench in both successes in 2013.

Reflecting on his time in Cherry & White, he continued: “I really look over the period of 2013 as a real high point in my career, one of the highest.

“I signed with Wigan to win trophies and 2013 was unbelievable.”

It is unlikely that Taylor, who also won four caps with England, will feature this Sunday, with Hull and Wigan expected to field strong teams for their final preparations ahead of the 2024 season.

The forward also underwent work on his back and nose after hanging up the boots.

“At the end of the day, I think it would be quite selfish for me to play,” Taylor explained.

“Wigan and Hull are wanting proper hit outs and it’s FC’s main friendly and the only time they’ll be together before that derby opener.

“I don’t want to be taking any minutes away from a young lad who wants to impress and is trying to stake a claim in that team.

“As it stands now, I won’t be taking much part of it. But I’ll be kitted up and I’ll be a part of it in any way I can be.”

Tickets are still available online and on the turnstiles on the day, with Taylor concluding: “I really hope Wigan fans come across.

“They’re the champions and it’s a Sunday afternoon with the chance to see some quality rugby league.

“I think we’re over 100 so far from the Wigan side of things.

“For any of the Wigan fans who are coming across to support me, I’d like to say thank you in advance now. I really appreciate the support.”