1.   WIDNES prop forward Harvey Howard has rocked the Naughton Park club with a transfer request, writes Nick Walker.

2.   Prop forward Evans looked set to miss the World Cup after breaking his leg against France in January and still is recovering.

3.   Prop forward Jason Leonard will take over as captain and will lead the team for the first time.

4.   Prop forward Ewen McKenzie said the Australian forwards were well aware that they will need to lift their performance another notch.