The Bulls have refused to allow prop Matt James to play for Halifax in their fourth-round Challenge Cup tie against Widnes at the Shay on Friday night.

James, 22, is in his second spell on loan to the Co-operative Championship side and was outstanding in their 26-24 win over Barrow on Saturday.

However, he remains on Bradford’s books and Odsal boss Steve McNamara does not want to see the Wales international get cup-tied in case they need to recall him further in the competition.

“It’s disappointing but we have to respect Bradford’s wishes,” said Halifax chief executive Graham Clay.

“He’s their player and in their position we might well have done the same thing.”