Preview: Halifax v Sheffield

Makali Aizue could make his Halifax debut in their Co-operative Championship opener on Sunday – but only if his visa application is processed in the next two days.

Dominic Maloney could also feature for ‘Fax after recovering from a hernia operation.

Eagles coach Mark Aston has also been hit with a major blow, after news emerged that Fijian half back Aaron Groom is likely to spend up to two months sidelined with a knee injury.

Groom has only played eight games for the Eagles after another knee problem wiped out most of last season.

But Aston remains buoyant ahead of the start of the league campaign. He said: “It’s about time that we started the league season how we finish it and that’s the challenge for us.

“We need to make sure we don’t start by winning just two games out of the first eight.

“We’re capable of achieving anything this year. We’ve got a great group with a really good attitude and I’m sure we’ll have a successful season again.”