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Rugby League

Challenge Cup expulsion a possibility for Hull

13/05/2008

Hull FC could be expelled from the Challenge Cup amid claims that they selected an ineligible player in their game against Widnes.

The club selected Jamie Thackray for the 32-18 fifth round win against Widnes Vikings on Sunday and the fourth round win against Rochdale.

But the prop, who joined from Leeds Rhinos on March 27th, signed after the deadline for the cup had passed.

If the Rugby Football League decides that Hull have broken the competition's bye-laws then they could face expulsion from the tournament or a fine.

Craig Spence, a spokesman for the RFL, said: "We are aware of the issue and are looking into it."

Hull are due to play Bradford Bulls in the next round of the competition and Widnes have said they would be happy to take their place.

"We are aware that Hull played an unregistered player and we're waiting to see what the league have to say," said Widnes operations manager Pat Cluskey.

He also pointed out that Widnes did not field either Richard Fletcher or Sam Barlow who were signed after the deadline and believe their inclusion could have changed the result.

"Had those two players been available, it may have been a different result," Mr Cluskey said.

Hull are yet to comment on the situation as the RFL look into the matter.

Players must be registered by the Monday of the week leading up to the third round of the competition if they are to play in the next three rounds.

But players signed up to the Monday before the quarter-final stage are free to play in the rest of the competition.