Here’s the news feature by Aaron Bower (The Guardian) on Rugby’s great wanderer, Christian Wade:
Rugby’s great wanderer Christian Wade: ‘You don’t say no to Wigan’
by Aaron Bower, The Guardian – June 14, 2025
For a man who has conquered premiership try‑scoring, tasted the NFL and now is diving into rugby league, the sparkle in Christian Wade’s eye reveals why Wigan became irresistible.
After a final flash of brilliance—two tries, including a stunning long‑range runner—in his Gloucester swansong against Northampton, Wade wasted no time. By the very next week, he was speeding north to Wigan.
Just days later, with only two hours of league training under his belt, he was suiting up for Wigan’s reserves at Castleford—matter‑of‑factly responding to coach Matt Peet’s offer: “If not now, when will it be? Let’s do it.”
League’s structure may be alien—back‑to‑back play, no rucks and a completely different shape—but Wade is all in. He’s studying the system, watching game film and using each outing as a “humbling baptism of fire.”
This isn’t a fluke. Wade’s code‑crossing ambitions go back to 2019 when the NFL and Toronto Wolfpack showed interest. Now, having rubbed shoulders with Wigan royalty—Jason Robinson, Shaun Edwards, Martin Offiah—he reflects: “It’s Wigan. You don’t say no to Wigan.
The short‑term deal runs until October (end of Super League season), but Wade is playfully non‑committal about what comes next. “Let’s just enjoy the ride,” he says—eager for whatever door opens afterward.
Q Career snapshot: Christian Wade
Born May 15, 1991 – age 34 .
Rugby Union highlights:
Wasps (2011–2018): 165 apps, 82 tries – 5th highest ever in Premiership .
Gloucester (2024–25): standout final with two tries.
England cap (2013) and toured with British & Irish Lions
NFL stint: Buffalo Bills practice squad (2019–2021), scored once in preseason .
Rugby Union comeback: Racing 92 (2022–2024), then Gloucester (2024–2025) .
Code‑switch to league: Signed short‑term with Wigan Warriors in April 2025; league debut in reserves vs Castleford on June 4, with Wigan winning 56–10 .
Why this matters
Christian Wade embodies bold reinvention. From Union star to NFL hopeful, French club player, premiership standout, and now rugby league rookie—his quest is defined by limitless ambition.
His arrival at Wigan isn’t a publicity stunt—it’s a testament to the club’s allure and Wade’s relentless drive. Getting through those league reserve matches, absorbing the nuances of a new code, and earning teammates’ respect will be just as challenging as facing any defensive line.
Next steps: Another reserve outing is scheduled next weekend, then Wigan will gauge if the stage is set for a possible Super League debut before October.
Bottom line: Wade’s motto—“You don’t say no to Wigan”—speaks volumes. At 34, rather than coast toward retirement, he’s chasing fresh purpose. Whether or not he logs Super League minutes, it’s one more brave pivot in a story painted with defiance, passion, and unyielding spirit.
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