While this is Wakefield's first final and the same for many of their players, like coach Powell a select few have sampled the unique atmosphere of Old Trafford for Super League's showpiece event. Tom Johnstone begrudgingly left Wakefield for Catalans in 2023 and reached the Grand Final in his first season, before rejoining Trinity in 2025. That night ended in disappointment with defeat by Wigan, so the 2026 final represents a second chance for the England winger to pick up the ring he so covets.
"It's going to be different in so many ways for me because as much as I loved Catalans, this is my team," Johnstone told BBC Radio 5 live. "This has been my team for almost all of my career, and the team that gave me an opportunity 15 years ago as a youngster. So, this is special, this is the big one."
Like Warrington, Wakefield have waited a long time to return to league glory, with a 58-year gap since their last title. One story for Wakefield to thrive upon is the impending retirement of stalwart back-rower Jay Pitts. Born in Ossett and a graduate of the youth set-up at Wakefield, the 36-year-old has amassed just short of 200 appearances for Trinity across two spells. Pitts has battled through this crucial period following a bicep injury.
It has been 71 years since Warrington last won a league title and it is their first trip to Old Trafford for eight years. In the Super League era, the Wire have now reached five Grand Finals, but are yet to cross the line. For Ben Currie, he is acutely aware of the gap between trophies, having been with the club during their four other visits. One member of the Warrington team who could make an impact is 18-year-old Ewan Irwin, who has the chance to become the youngest player to ever score in a Grand Final.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing