Powell served his hometown club for over a decade, debuting at senior level in August 2012 and going on to make 273 appearances for the Cherry & Whites.
The last of those came off the interchange bench at Old Trafford in October, helping Wigan to a 10-2 victory against Catalans Dragons in the Grand Final as the Warriors were crowned Super League champions for the first time in five years.
A move across the North West to Warrington followed, and on Saturday afternoon when the two clubs meet at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, the first reunion will see Powell hit the milestone of 300 career appearances.
15 of his 299 so far have come for the Wolves, an ever-present for Sam Burgess’ side since his arrival having started on the interchange bench in all bar one game to date this year.
Barring any injury or suspension, Powell’s 301st career appearance will also be against his former employers seven days later under the Wembley arch as the two clubs meet in the Challenge Cup final on June 8.
And speaking to the media ahead of this weekend’s league clash, Warriors boss Peet paid a classy tribute to the 31-year-old, saying: “We have a good relationship, myself and Sam, from all the time I’ve worked through the club.
“I learned a lot from him and I always trusted him. He’s an unbelievable professional. We’ve all got so much respect for him, not just as a player, but as a person.
“I think it was a really smart signing from Warrington, and I don’t think it’s a coincidence that they’ve signed him and certain improvements have been made; I think he’s contributed to their environment.
“We’re aware of exactly what he’ll be bringing to that group in terms of his care, how much he buys into the team, and puts the team first.
