When Wigan Warriors will find out their Challenge Cup third round opponents

The Rugby Football League have revamped the prestigious competition for 2025, with top flight clubs entering at an earlier stage than usual and unable to draw each other - guaranteed to play a lower league side away from home, with potential big-money ties for those successful in the second round, including community clubs.

The third round draw is set to take place on the evening of Tuesday, January 14, live on BBC iPlayer, while the road to Wembley kicks-off this weekend with the opening round of action. The draw for the group stage of the Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup will also take place that evening, held at the headquarters of competition sponsors Betfred. Coverage is set to begin from 6:30pm, while the third round of action takes place on weekend of February 7, 8 and 9.

In the opening round, community club Leigh Miners Rangers will take on Waterhead live on BBC iPlayer, while Orrell St James are set to feature on The Sportsman as they travel to National Conference League Premier Division side Thatto Heath Crusaders – both on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Ince Rose Bridge will host five-time all-Ireland champions, Longhorns on Saturday, although games are under threat by the current weather.

Those successful in the first round will find out if a Super League opponent potentially awaits in the third round, adding extra motivation to reach that stage of the competition.