Shot in arm for Quins as 'warrior' Randall extends deal

Harlequins' hooker Chad Randall has joined the ranks of those committed to the club for next season. The Australian, who first arrived from Manly at the end of the 2005 season, has signed for two more years, much to the delight of his coach, Brian McDermott.

"Chad has been the most consistent performer this season," McDermott said. "He's the ultimate warrior who leads from the front and I'm delighted he's decided to extend his stay with us for another two years."

Randall's re-signing comes the day after Henry Paul's decision to stay for another year and a week after Jon Grayshon and Rikki Sheriffe agreed contract extensions.

There are doubts about the future of the England centre, Paul Sykes, however. He is out of contract at the end of the season and his old club, Bradford, are showing interest. An announcement is also expected soon over the intentions of the Quins' chairman, Ian Lenaghan, who is likely to head a takeover of Wigan.

The Carnegie Challenge Cup finalists, St Helens, will rest three of their regulars in their last match before Wembley at Salford on Friday. Paul Wellens, Willie Talau and Maurie Fa'asavalu have all been left out of the squad for The Willows with minor injuries, along with the suspended Leon Pryce.

The Saints' coach, Daniel Anderson, who will only get his squad back in training today after a nightmare journey back from France after their defeat by Catalan Dragons, has named an array of young reserves.

Leeds are giving their Great Britain scrum-half, Rob Burrow, as long as possible to prove his fitness after a rib injury and play against the relegation candidates Hull KR on Friday.

Warrington's Paul Wood has escaped a ban after being found guilty of a reckless high tackle at Hull for which he was sent off.