Former British Lion John Bentley is tipping England to win the inaugural Six Nations Championship, which starts tomorrow.

The 33-year-old Cleckheaton-born player, who is now director of coaching with his local club, feels France and Wales will be the main dangers.

Bentley, capped twice for England against Ireland in 1988, says: "England will always be strong at this level.

"Ireland, Scotland and Wales have improved dramatically in the last three or four years.

"They used to have an outside chance of beating England, but now they have a fair chance.

"However, I cannot look beyond England as the winners, and I applaud the fact that they are giving youngsters like Mike Tindall and Ben Cohen.

"But I am sure after the expenditure that the club has put in they will be looking at pushing for the top five.

"It will take time for us to blend because we are effectively a new side.

"Sunday gives us the first chance to gauge how far we have come and how much we have to do." But McNamara admits it will be an emotional day too.

"I have some great friends among the players and I am looking forward to seeing them after the game."

The Bulls are holding their squad numbers presentation night at St George's Hall tonight when the club's new shirts will be on sale, along with their hugely popular £10 junior season tickets.

Stand tickets for the cup game go on sale tomorrow. Those wishing to reserve their normal seats should produce their season ticket book. The Odsal office will be open between 9.30am and 12.30pm.

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