You can keep Nathan Cleary, James Fisher-Harris and Kezie Apps - out of almost 160 players in Las Vegas next month, Wigan forward Kaide Ellis has been unveiled as the one set to bring the most fans through the gates of Allegiant Stadium.
Ellis, 28, returned from a Christmas break in Australia to be greeted by snow and ice at Wigan’s Robin Park training facility as the reigning world champions stepped up their preparations for the March 1 clash with Sam Burgess’ Warrington.
But the man who started his career at fellow Vegas club Penrith won’t have time to get too homesick - when he flies out for Nevada on February 24, he’s set to be met by so many people from his home town of Dubbo that the Central Western city risks a tumbleweed infestation for a week.
“I’ve got a lot of family going across from Dubbo,” was the understatement from Ellis, who was at St George Illawarra in 2020 and 2021.
“Mum, dad, two sisters, sister’s husband, grandparents, uncle, auntie, two cousins and a few other family friends."
Ellis estimated his total headcount in Sin City - including mum Rebecca, dad Mark, sisters Keeley and Kyra, brother-in-law Alex, uncle Nick, auntie Melissa, cousins Chelsea and Paris - could hit 20.
“I didn’t organise it, they all organised it themselves. I hope I get to see them, I’ll make the effort anyway.”
When it was put to Ellis he would be responsible for more ticket sales than any other player, he responded: “Yeah, it’d be close. I’ve got a couple of mates (playing) - obviously I had a couple of years at Penrith, I’m still close with them. I’ve got a mate who plays for the Warriors as well. (I’ll) hopefully catch up with them if we’re there long enough.”
Like several of his team-mates, Ellis has been to Vegas previously under very different circumstances - with far fewer responsibilities.
“I was lucky enough to go there in 2018 - went with a couple of mates. Had three days there. That was enough. It takes a lot out of you," he said.
“I’m looking forward to playing on a big prestigious stage like that, NFL stadium.
“(There’s) a lot of teams playing, a good vibe and hopefully we get to experience the off-field stuff as well, get to wander around. Hopefully we have a good win and get to go out and have a good night.”
Wigan captain Liam Farrell meanwhile expects the match, the first of four on March 1, to be a career highlight.
Ellis saves a certain try to Liu
That might sound like a cliche until you consider how much silverware Farrell has lifted: six Super League titles, four Challenge Cups, two World Club Challenges and five minor premierships, known as the League Leader’s Shield.
“I’d imagine it’s going to have a feeling of some kind of cup final,” the 34-year-old said.
"... a big game feeling and it’s something I’m looking forward to as one of the highlight stadiums I’ve played in. I’m looking forward to taking the team over there and the 17 who get to go out there on the pitch, it will be great for us.
“The experience of four games in one day will be a good experience as well. It’s something I’m proud to be part of myself but also for the club as well.
“The only thing I’ve seen is some of the merchandise that’s going to go on sale, some of the shirts and stuff.
“It’s very exciting for the fans, what they’re going to be able to purchase from the club and they’re going to take over there. The club are putting a lot into this. Hopefully it can be a great occasion.”
