Hull turn to revitalised Webster to put their season back on track

Hull, next to bottom in Super League, have cast their net across the city to sign James Webster, the scrum-half cut adrift by Hull KR.

The Australian was Rovers' playmaker until a shoulder dislocation, which was supposed to end his season and saw him deregistered by Hull KR. But he has now been given the all-clear to resume training and could be fit to play in the Humberside derby in less than two weeks.

The deal, however, is dependent on him securing the British passport that will exempt him from the overseas quota before the Super League signing deadline on Friday. "Hopefully, James will get through the red tape, because in our current predicament he will bring us some extra direction," said the Hull coach, Richard Agar.

Webster will not be able to play in the Challenge Cup semi-final against Wakefield on 27 July. His signing came on the day that Hull were fined £100,000, £40,000 of it suspended for 12 months, for fielding the ineligible Jamie Thackray in two previous rounds. Hull have seven days to appeal against the fine, which is the heaviest ever imposed by the Rugby League.

Huddersfield's Chris Thorman has been charged with biting, following a video review of the stormy clash with Bradford on Sunday.

The Salford captain, Robbie Paul, has tipped Widnes as the other National League side who should get a Super League licence when the decision is made on 22 July.

Paul, who led Salford to a crushing 60-0 victory over Doncaster in the final of the Northern Rail Cup on Sunday, said: "From what I've seen, Widnes are the other club that are the most prepared."

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