Rugby League: Bradley severely censured

THE BRADFORD Bulls' recently retired captain, Graeme Bradley, has been "severely censured and reprimanded" for remarks made about the referee, Stuart Cummings, after the defeat by St Helens in the Super League play-offs.

Bradley was sent off but later found not guilty of using an elbow. It was his comments in his local newspaper column that have brought this delayed action from the Rugby League, although it is difficult to see what effect it will have on him, now that he is no longer directly involved in the game.

The League has also introduced a system of licensing for players' agents. In future, agents will have to be approved and to deposit a pounds 30,000 guarantee with the League.

"Clubs will not deal with unlicensed agents," said a League spokesman.

The destination of the Silk Cut Challenge Cup final for the two years when Wembley will be under redevelopment has been decided and could be announced this week. A few loose ends remain to be tied up with the sponsors before a major rugby union ground - Twickenham, Murrayfield or Cardiff - is confirmed as the venue for 2000 and 2001.

The draws for the Cup from the fifth-round stage onwards will be made live on BBC's Sunday Grandstand.

The BBC will once more screen two matches each weekend from the fourth round, when Super League clubs enter the competition, and the draw will be made after the Sunday televised game.