Wigan crowned World Club champions

Wigan Warriors were crowned the best club team in the world following a 16-12 victory over NRL champions Penrith Panthers at the DW Stadium. 

A determined Jake Wardle effort midway through the second half proved the difference as the Warriors claimed the World Club Challenge for the fifth in their history, and for the first time since 2017. 

Abbas Miski opened the scoring for the Warriors following a sublime cut-out pass from reigning Steve Prescott Man of Steel Bevan French. Penrith hit back through NRL Grand Final hero Nathan Cleary.

Matt Peet's side would head into the break ahead however as off-season acquisition Kruise Leeming finished a flowing Warriors move on the right-hand side.

It took less than two minutes of the second half for the visitors to regain the lead with fullback Dylan Edwards slicing his way through two Wigan defenders to cross. 

Wardle's effort would be awarded following review from the video referee whilst the Panthers would be denied with the final play of the game. 

Wigan's victory means the World Club Challenge remains with the champions of the Betfred Super League following St Helens victory Down Under last season, also against the Panthers.

Warriors: Jai Field, Abbas Miski, Adam Keighran, Jake Wardle, Liam Marshall; Bevan French, Harry Smith; Mike Cooper, Brad O?Neill, Liam Byrne, Willie Isa, Liam Farrell, Kaide Ellis.

Interchanges: Patrick Mago, Tyler Dupree, Kruise Leeming, Harvie Hill.

18^th Player: Ryan Hampshire.

Panthers: Dylan Edwards, Sunia Turuva, Izack Tago, Taylan May, Brian To?o; Jack Cole, Nathan Cleary; Moses Leota, Mitch Kenny, James Fisher-Harris, Luke Garner, Liam Martin, Isaah Yeo.

Interchanges: Tyrone Peachey, Lindsay Smith, Liam Henry, Matt Eisenhuth.

18^th Player: Brad Schneider.