The magic of the Challenge Cup has been ably demonstrated by the fixtures resulting from the sixth-round draw. In addition to a number of all-Super League ties, the romance of the Cup has also pitted the minnows of York City Knights against the reigning Grand Final winners St Helens. Championship leaders Leigh Centurions have been rewarded for their surprise success over Salford Red Devils, by being handed a visit to Wakefield Wildcats. A potentially explosive match-up has been created with the pairing of near neighbours Leeds Rhinos against fellow West Yorkshire side Huddersfield Giants.

Rugby league's most historic and prestigious competition has been in existence since 1897, with the showpiece final drawing fans of the game to the iconic Wembley Stadium. It enables the sides in the lower leagues of the game to brush shoulders with the Super League superstars, pitting their wits against some of the best players in the world.

There has been a major surprise in this year's competition already, with Championship side Leigh defeating Salford 22-18 at home at the weekend in the fifth-round. Salford are currently flying high in fourth place in the Super League, as they target the end of season play-offs that culminate in the Grand Final itself. Their loss to Leigh was unexpected, despite the hosts extending their winning streak to 21 matches with the victory.

It prompted head coach Paul Rowley to state that he believes that they are ready to step up to the next level, with promotion to the top-flight a distinct possibility this season. In the fallout from their reversal, Salford's forward Cory Paterson has been handed a three-match suspension for illegal use of his shoulder during the game.

Leigh have been drawn at Wakefield in the sixth round, a match that they will feel is eminently within their compass to win. Wakefield are at the bottom of the Super League after a disappointing start to their season, with just two victories in ten matches so far.

Challenge Cup holders and runaway leaders of the Super League at present, Leeds have been handed a tough tie against their arch rivals Huddersfield.

With skipper Kevin Sinfield and old warhorse Jamie Peacock both departing for new pastures at the end of the season, Leeds would like nothing better than a return trip to the London final. The Giants will have ambitions of their own though and would dearly love to claim their seventh Challenge Cup success after a long gap of 62 years.

League One side York face a daunting trip to Langtree Park to face the twelve-time Cup winning Saints. The draw typifies what the Cup is all about, with York being the lowest-ranked side left in this year's competition after their 44-14 victory at Leigh Miners over the weekend. Few experts will be predicting anything other than a comprehensive win for the Saints though.

The draw threw out two further all-Super League ties with Hull FC at home to Castleford Tigers, and Wigan Warriors hosting Hull KR. The matches will be played between 15th and 17th May.
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