Wigan will launch their Super League defence against Huddersfield on Friday night without international winger Josh Charnley, who has failed to recover from a hernia operation.

The 22-year-old was the league’s top scorer in 2013, crossing the whitewash 34 times.

“It is disappointing to miss the start of the season,” he said.

“It’s been a few weeks without having the ball in my hands. It might be tough for me to get back in the way the wingers have been playing. There is plenty of competition and everyone is fighting for a spot.”

Charnley is set to return to action for Wigan’s World Club Challenge warm-up against New Zealand Warriors.