League urges Kiwis to omit Webb and Leuluai

The Rugby League has intervened in the row between British clubs and New Zealand over the release of players for next week's Trans-Tasman Test.

Kiwi selectors have named Leeds' Brent Webb and Thomas Leuluai of Wigan in their side to face Australia on 9 May, despite their clubs insisting that they need them. The league is asking New Zealand to reconsider their decision.

Meanwhile, Webb has insisted that he remains committed to Leeds, despite his agent circulating details of his possible availability at the end of this season, when his contract with the Rhinos expires, to other clubs.

Hull KR appear to have won the race to sign Canberra scrum-half, Michael Dobson, and he could arrive as early as next week.

Leeds Met Carnegie have pledged themselves to a five-year development programme for rugby league in Ireland as part of their sponsorship of the Irish team in this year's World Cup. Ireland's coach, Andy Kelly, has been approached by two prominent rugby union players – one a full international and one an A team cap – wanting to play in the tournament. Kelly has told them they must play in the domestic competition to be considered.