Darren Lockyer hopes to see London Broncos show their Super League potential when they host Bradford Bulls in a hotly-anticipated Betfred Challenge Cup third round clash.
London launched a bid to make the top-flight for the 2026 campaign but narrowly missed out via the IMG gradings process.
They have made an excellent start to the Betfred Championship season, though, with impressive wins over Widnes Vikings and much-fancied Oldham.
With legendary former Australia star Lockyer having taken over the club in the off-season alongside fellow countryman Grant Wechsel, there is a real feel-good factor about the Broncos.
And they now have an opportunity to flex their muscles against Bradford - who are preparing for their first Super League season in 12 years.
Ahead of Sunday’s tie at Plough Lane (kick-off 3pm), which will be televised live on BBC Sport and BBC iPlayer, Lockyer admitted: “It goes without saying this is a big game for us.
“Bradford were one of the other clubs we were vying with for a spot in the Super League.
“They were successful and we understand the process in place to get them there.
“We were 16th in the gradings and they were in the top 14 so they earned their spot.
“I’m sure they’ll come to London and want to prove a point.
“That’s the reason they got to the Super League; they’ll want to show up.
“But equally, for us, it’s an opportunity to show - although we didn’t make it into the Super League - this is what we’re capable of.
“Let’s see how that unfolds. May the best team win.”
Australia star forward Reagan Campbell-Gillard, who has twice won the World Cup, will bid to lead London to a shock victory and secure them a place in the fourth round draw.
And although ex-Brisbane Broncos and Queensland State of Origin ace Lockyer never got to play in the Challenge Cup, he knows all about rugby league’s most famous knockout competition.
He said: “Wembley is iconic across the world.
“I was fortunate to play there in ‘97. That was the old Wembley before it got torn down.
“But I got another chance in 2001 to play for Australia at the new stadium.
“The Challenge Cup always gets talked about here in Australia because of the road to Wembley and the fact any club whether amateur, semi-pro’ or professional - can come through that journey.
“That adds to it all. I went along to Wembley for the Challenge Cup Final in 2007 when I was injured at the Broncos.
“It’s got a great atmosphere, great tradition and great history.
“For us, not being in the Super League, this is the competition we want to do really well in.”
Holders Hull KR begin the defence of the trophy when they host amateurs Lock Lane on Friday when beaten finalists Warrington Wolves also take on Championship Sheffield Eagles.
The Challenge Cup final will be played at Wembley on May 30. It will be the first time it has been played there in May since the stadium was renovated.
It's Betfred Challenge Cup Finals Day at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 30 May 2026. Book your tickets here today and enjoy our early bird prices!
