The Black Cats boss made nine changes to his side following their draw at Fleetwood, and several players took their opportunities to impress.
Goals from Nathan Broadhead and Luke O’Nien either side of half-time made it a comfortable night for the visitors against their fellow League One side.
Wigan, who are top of League One on goal difference, also made several chances as manager Leam Richardson made nine alterations following the Latics’ 4-1 at Accrington Stanley.
Yet Sunderland deserved their win, as several of the club’s new signings started the match.
German winger Leon Dajaku made his debut for the Black Cats and played 72 minutes before he was replaced by Ross Stewart.
Our chief Sunderland writer Phil Smith has delivered his verdict on how each player fared:
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1. Anthony Patterson - 6
Little he could do about the opener and made some good interventions from set plays. 6 Photo: Martin Swinney
2. Lynden Gooch - 5
Picked up an injury just minutes into the game and though he managed to play on there was no great surprise when he was the player taken off at half time to get another forward onto the pitch. 5 Photo: Frank Reid
3. Luke O’Nien - 6
Beaten too easily by Broadhead in the build up to Wyke’s goal but responded with a tenacious second half at right back and was part of the quick thinking from a free kick that sparked Cirkin’s goal. 6 Photo: Frank Reid
4. Danny Batth - 7
Put himself about well in the second to deal with Wigan as they went increasingly direct and physical. 7 Photo: Frank Reid