Paul savours magic

Robbie Paul is not sure whether he would rather be going to Cardiff this weekend as a player or a fan.

As the Millennium Stadium prepares to host six Super League games over Saturday and Sunday, the former New Zealand Test half back said: "I have played there in a Challenge Cup Final and been involved in a couple of internationals there and it is an awesome experience.

"I have also been back as a punter and been dragged into every bar in town. I've never had to buy a drink.

"Cardiff always opens its arms to rugby league because it's a family sport. But the Welsh capital has never seen anything like this weekend's Millennium Magic carnival. All that pride and passion. What great value for money. I'd love it."

The free drinks will have to wait, however, because Paul has been cleared to play for Huddersfield against Wakefield on Sunday after being out for a month with a broken hand.

"Mind you, I'm not sure to get into the team," he added.

Huddersfield, who Paul, 31, joined two seasons ago after more than a decade of success with Bradford, have won five consecutive matches after losing their first seven of the season.

"The concept of bringing a whole round of Super League games to Cardiff is fantastic. I just hope the fans turn up in numbers. The game pushed back the boundaries by inviting a French club to join Super League and if this weekend is well supported it could lead to Wales getting a club."

Harlequins have included 20-year-old on-loan Leeds academy prop Luke Burgess in their squad for Saturday's match against Catalans Dragons.

Burgess, the older brother of Bradford forward Sam, could replace the injured Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook.