Pongia agrees to prop up Wigan

Wigan have signed the former New Zealand captain, Quentin Pongia, for the rest of the season. The 33-year-old prop, who is playing for St George in Australia, could make his debut against Castleford next Friday. The former Wigan coach, Frank Endacott, represents Pongia and offered him to his old club during his recent visit.

Another Kiwi Test front-rower, Craig Smith, is likely to stay at Wigan next season, the club has hinted, but the Australian winger, Brett Dallas, is set for a quick return to his homeland to play for Cronulla.

Leigh are poised today to announce the recruitment of Tommy Martyn as player and assistant coach. Martyn, who comes from Leigh and lives in the town, is not being offered a new contract by St Helens.

Struggling Saints will be without their captain, Chris Joynt, who has broken his nose and will be out for four weeks, for the first time this season against Halifax tonight. For Halifax, Shayne McMenemy is injured and John Kirkpatrick is not allowed to play against the club from which he is on loan.