Scrum half Paul Deacon, so often forced to play second fiddle at Bradford Bulls, has been given a starting role tonight as they aim to be on top of the world.

The 22-year-old has been named in the 13 for tonight's World Club Challenge match against the Newcastle Knights at the McAlpine Stadium.

Last season he made 20 of his 31 appearances from the bench, but Bulls' head coach Brian Noble said today: "It is up to Paul. We need to see if he can perform week in and week out.

"He may have only started 11 games last season, but he now needs to show that he can play for 80 minutes consistently."

New Zealand international Lesley Vainikolo opens up on the wing, pushing Leon Pryce to the bench, and skipper Robbie Paul is at stand-off - a role vacated by his brother Henry last season.

Lee Gilmour gets a centre berth in the absence of Graham Mackay, and Joe Vagana and Brian McDermott get first chance in the front row.

Stuart Fielden and Paul Anderson are waiting in the wings, as is Pryce and one of second row Lee Radford or utility back Brandon Costin.

Noble said: "The decision there will rest with the weather, but either way I will have four quality players ready, willing and able on the bench.

"It has been more difficult picking the side this time than last year, and it is a reflection of the quality of the squad.

"Stuart Fielden, for example, is on the top of his game at the moment, so I don't want to over-emphasise the importance of the starting 13.

"Things can change very quickly, but the lads have looked lively this week in training."

Noble, meanwhile insists there is life after Henry Paul, who, despite his current row with Gloucester, is unlikely to return to league in the near future.

"The reality is he's gone," said the coach. "We've practised without Henry and we're ready to go without him. It's an opportunity for someone else to make themselves the new Henry Paul."

As the number of tickets sold for the Huddersfield clash reached 17,500 yesterday - tickets will be available on the door - the Bulls have received good luck messages from all over the world.

"We have had over 600 e-mails, with some from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and the States," said the Bulls' media manager Stuart Duffy.