Matt Peet delivers glowing tribute to 'diamond' Bevan French ahead of Wigan Warriors milestone
Bevan French will make his 150th appearance for Wigan Warriors this weekend
Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet has paid tribute to Bevan French ahead of the halfback’s 150th appearance for the club against Bradford Bulls on Saturday.
French will reach the milestone when Wigan travel to Bartercard Odsal, having established himself as one of the greatest players of the Super League era since arriving at the Warriors midway through the 2019 campaign.
The 30-year-old has scored 125 tries in 149 appearances for Wigan, helping the club win two Super League titles, three League Leaders’ Shields, three Challenge Cups and a World Club Challenge title.
French was also crowned the Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel in 2023 and has been named in the Super League Dream Team on three occasions.
Peet believes the Australian’s influence stretches well beyond what he produces on the field, highlighting the way he conducts himself away from the 80 minutes each week.
“He’s just a diamond, I think,” Peet said of French, who made his Wigan debut in a 36-18 win over Hull KR in August 2019. “Anyone who has met him knows how humble he is.
“You don’t need me to tell you about what he does on the field, but the way he engages with supporters, sponsors and teammates, he is just everything you would want in a Wigan player aside from his ability on the field.
“I think his community in Australia and his family - I know they are very proud of him, but he’s done them proud, for sure.”
French has been a key part of Wigan’s success during his time at the club and remains under contract until the end of the 2028 season, which would mark 10 seasons at the Brick Community Stadium.