SCRUM-half Tony Smith will miss Wigan Warriors' opening Silk Cut Challenge Cup clash at Keighley.
The Yorkshireman, who has only just recovered from a knee injury, tore an hamstring in the friendly against Hull Sharks last week. He misses the trip to the Cougars but if Wigan are successful should be available for the next round two weeks later.
Coach John Monie was relieved to have avoided a Super League team when the draw was made last night.
"There were only three marbles remaining including ourselves and St Helens so I was pleased when they came out at Featherstone.
"I'm sure all the Super League clubs want to avoid each other in the first round as they are likely to meet in the next one. But there is never any room for complacency."
Previous sport story
Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article