Sculthorpe sets second Test as target for recovery

Paul Sculthorpe has resigned himself to missing the first Test against New Zealand on Saturday with a thigh injury that has ruined his preparations. The St Helens loose forward, who last month became the first player to be voted the best in the game two seasons running, struggled through the Grand Final with the injury.

"I didn't think it was that serious at the time, but I haven't been able to run on it at all this week and my chances don't look good,'' he said. "I am hoping to have it right in time for the second Test.''

The Great Britain coach, David Waite, was equally gloomy about Sculthorpe's hopes for the match in Blackburn. "Paul was the only player not in full training today and he has to be very doubtful,'' he said. "We always thought it would be very close for the first Test, but the good thing is that it is a three-Test series.''

Waite will tell his players his line-up tonight, with Kevin Sinfield and Mike Forshaw now more likely to start. The probable back three, however, would see Andy Farrell retaining his role at loose forward, with Adrian Morley and Jamie Peacock in the second row.

The news on Kieron Cunningham, is better, with the world-class hooker coming through his second training session without any ill effects from his hand injury. "I feel good now I am back in training and I hope I am going to be all right,'' he said.

The Kiwis' main problems for the Test are their two flu victims, David Vaealiki and Nathan Cayless. Clinton Toopi is back in training after a chest injury and Ruben Wiki has been cleared of any broken bones in his hand, although he will be monitored. If Vaealiki does not make it, Robbie Paul has volunteered to play at full-back, as he did impressively in the victory over Wales on Sunday.

Huddersfield have signed the South Sydney forward, Anthony Colella, on a two-year-deal. Colella played only five games for Souths last season because of injury, but the Huddersfield coach, Tony Smith, says he is now fully fit and has tipped him to make a big impact in Super League.

Salford have confirmed that three key forwards – Malcolm Alker, Neil Baynes and Andy Coley – will be staying with them next season, despite relegation from Super League. Castleford, however, have completed the signing of the Salford full back, Damian Gibson.

Swinton have lost their coach, Phil Veivers, after just a handful of games in charge. Veivers has accepted an offer to become assistant coach at Leigh, replacing Norman Turley.

Oldham have signed the Welsh international forward, Chris Morley, who was not offered a new contract by Leigh.