Paul agrees new deal with Bradford

The Bradford Bulls captain Robbie Paul could finish his career at Odsal Stadium after signing an extended contract with the club he joined as a teenager.

Paul, who was outstanding for New Zealand in last month's Test series against Great Britain, will now be with the Bulls until at least the end of the 2006 season, by which time he will be 30.

"I made a commitment to the club as an 18-year-old and I have been very happy here," said Paul. "The Bulls are the only club I want to play for and I feel we are in a great position to continue with the success we have achieved."

The Bradford coach, Brian Noble, said: "He has been inspirational for the Bulls and is a first-class ambassador for both the club and the sport."

Less happy are the relationships between Halifax and their overseas players. The club has suspended Robbie Beckett and Brett Goldspink without pay for failing to report for pre-season training.

"They failed to return to the club for training on 11 November and have not offered a proper explanation," said Halifax spokesman, Stephen Pearson. "We are very disappointed that two senior players should act in this way."

The two Australians are among the players unimpressed with reduced contract offers for this season. Their fellow-countryman Colum Halpenny has been sacked for an unspecified disciplinary breach, while a fourth Australian, Gavin Clinch, has had his transfer to Salford blocked by Halifax, who want compensation for the remaining year of his contract.

Sunday's historic TXU Energi Challenge Cup tie between the Hull amateur side Embassy and the Russians of Strela Kazan has been switched to Hull KR's ground at Craven Park. Embassy's secretary, Steve Taylor, said: "This is the biggest game in the history of the club."