Bradford Bulls have swooped to capture talented back Phil Howlett from Australian club South Sydney.

The 24-year-old will replace Danny Peacock on the Odsal club's overseas quota after agreeing a contract until the end of the current season.

Howlett, who played for Tonga in the 1995 World Cup, started his career with Parramatta and will travel to England once his work permit has been secured.

Delighted Bulls coach Matt Elliott said: "He is a dynamic ball-carrier who will add a lot of pace while proving difficult to put down. I also believe he will adjust quickly to the English game."

Australian-born Howlett, who can play on either the wing or in the centre, started his career Down Under with Parramatta in 1994 before moving to South Sydney two years later.

He also appeared in both Tonga's World Cup games in 1995 when they were unfortunate to go out after two solid performances.

Howlett played in the centre for Tonga, who he qualified for by parentage, when they lost 25-24 against New Zealand thanks to a last-minute drop goal from Kiwis skipper Matthew Ridge.

The last-gasp defeat was a shattering blow to Tonga, but they bounced back to draw 28-28 with Papua New Guinea.

Howlett again played in the centre and grabbed one of Tonga's six touchdowns as they bowed out of the World Cup at the group stage.

Bulls had an extra space on their overseas quota after the retirement of Peacock, the popular centre suffering knee damage in the thrilling draw with Castleford earlier this month.

The Aussie was forced to undergo a cartilage operation just 12 months after having his knee reconstructed, following another serious injury sustained while playing for the Bulls.

Howlett also appeared for the Rest of the World when they played Australia in 1997, and will arrive in England determined to do enough to earn a career over here after the current season ends.

Bulls media manager Stuart Duffy said: "We are confident that Phil will prove to be a useful addition to the squad.

"We also do not envisage any problems with his work permit because he has played the required number of games and we look forward to welcoming him to Odsal as soon as possible."

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