Rugby league news: Challenge Cup 2026 quarter-finals – Previews, predictions and betting tips
The world’s oldest rugby cup competition, the Challenge Cup, reaches its quarter-final stage this weekend.
Four high-stakes clashes await, with games likely to be decided as much by moments of individual brilliance as by overall squad strength.
Here, Sports News Blitz writer Elliot Ward previews each tie, assessing form and offering the best betting predictions.
Hull KR vs York Knights
Hull KR come into this one in high spirits after defeating Hull FC in the rivals round last time out.
They also boast tremendous talent, including former Man of Steel award winner Mikey Lewis, who could drive KR forward in this game.
York, meanwhile, have been in pretty poor form recently and I think that will be the case again this weekend.
The visitors don’t offer the quality that KR have and that will show.
However, I do expect York to put up a good fight.
Suggested bet: York Knights to be winning at half-time – 12/1 (Ladbrokes)
St Helens vs Catalans Dragons
St Helens should be confident after a good start to the season and a huge win over Wigan Warriors last week.
The Saints currently sit in fifth place in the Super League on 10 points, the same tally as league leaders Warrington Wolves.
Catalans have had a decent start to the season too and sit two points further off in sixth.
The Dragons are a solid outfit but nothing special, and it will take something special to defeat St Helens this weekend.
For that reason, I’m going with a St Helens win and a standout performance from Tristan Sailor, who has been brilliant these past few weeks.
Suggested bet: Tristan Sailor anytime try scorer – 7/4 (Coral)
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Masters 2026 betting tips: Bryson DeChambeau, Robert MacIntyre and Tyrell Hatton in the running
Warrington Wolves vs Leigh Leopards
Warrington are top of the Super League at the moment and oozing confidence, so I expect them to continue their amazing form in this game.
Leigh have been struck with an injury crisis this season and have not looked good at all.
That shows in their league position as they sit 13th – off the bottom only on points difference.
As a result, Warrington should run away with it.
Suggested bet: Warrington Wolves with a winning margin of +15 – 11/8 (Betway)
READ NEXT: Premiership Rugby analysis: A detailed look at Newcastle Red Bulls’ 19 signings for next season
Wakefield Trinity vs Wigan Warriors
Wakefield welcome Wigan in high spirits after a 34-0 win against local rivals Castleford Tigers last Sunday.
Wigan have had a rough few weeks, suffering losses to Huddersfield Giants and St Helens, and need to kick on now.
This is a really tough game to predict, but I think Wakefield’s tendency to make fast starts – not to mention their home advantage – could cause problems for Wigan from the off.
Yet, the Warriors’ quality is superior, and I predict that will show later in the game.
Suggested bet: Wakefield Trinity half-time, Wigan Warriors full-time – 7/1 (Betfred)
YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: FA Cup title or Premier League survival? What would Leeds Utd fans prefer?
