Bentley seeks a winter with Rotherham

Halifax's international winger, John Bentley, has denied that he is planning to leave the code to return to rugby union with Rotherham.

Bentley, who was capped by England as a centre during his days with Sale, has since represented both Great Britain and England at rugby league. He says that the limit of his ambitions in union is to play for the Courage League Third Division side during the rugby league close-season.

"Nothing is decided yet, as I've got to get the board's say-so first," said the 29-year-old Bentley, who recently signed a three-year, full-time contract to play for Halifax in the Super League. "One thing I can confirm is that I will be at Halifax for the next three years."

The Halifax chief executive, Nigel Wood, said: "John Bentley has approached the board about the possibility of playing rugby union during the close season. Although still under discussion, it is sure that certain financial and insurance considerations would be required to protect the club's investment in the player before this scenario could even be contemplated."

Steve Prescott is available for St Helens' Regal Trophy final against Wigan on Saturday, despite being rested against Warrington on Sunday with a knee injury. He is now in competition with Danny Arnold for the full- back position, but the long-term casualties - Paul Newlove, Anthony Sullivan and Chris Joynt - are all still rated doubtful

Their final opponents, Wigan, will play three matches in the last week of the season to clinch the Stones Centenary Championship. They meet Bradford at home next Tuesday, Sheffield Eagles at the Don Valley Stadium on the Friday and Leeds at home on the Sunday.

Wigan need just one point to make mathematically certain of their seventh successive title. Even that will be unnecessary if Leeds drop a point in their re-arranged home match against Oldham tomorrow night.

The former Great Britain full-back, Alan Tait, has been recalled for his first start in the Leeds team since November.

Warrington have signed the former Australian Test prop Les Davison, who last played for them eight years ago on a short-term contract.