Bradford Bulls hopes of a flying start to Super League III have been dealt a blow with news that inspirational hooker James Lowes will miss the big kick-off.

Last year's Man of Steel and Super League player-of-the-year has had surgery on knee cap and thigh bone damage and will be unable to return to the training ground for a month.

It means he is certain to miss the opening night clash with Huddersfield Giants at the McAlpine Stadium on Friday, April 3 and perhaps, more vitally, the opening home fixture with deadly rivals Leeds Rhinos on Easter Sunday.

Lowes has been a constant thorn in Leeds' side since leaving Headingley for Odsal two years ago and has invariably come up with crucial tries.

Bulls coach Matthew Elliott said: "It's obviously a blow and Jimmy is very disappointed. But the surgery means he will be restored to full fitness pretty quickly and we have a squad system to cover things like this.

"He first had problems after the Batley game but it wasn't until he had an examination that the full extent of the injuries was revealed.

"There was damage to the knee cap itself and there was a small fracture at the base of the thigh bone.

"It is one of those things and we just have to get on with it."

The most likely scenario for the Giants clash is a call-up for Nathan Graham who has deputised on several occasions in the past although Bernard Dywer, who played much of his early career at hooker, may also come under consideration.

Bulls season ticket holders can assure their places for the McAlpine showdown by purchasing tickets in advance at Odsal next week.

"They have a full week to make sure of their tickets so there is no need to panic on Monday," said media manager Jackie Butson.

They will be on general sale from Monday, March 23 but the match is not all ticket. Seat prices are £12, £11 and £10 with concessions at a flat rate of £5.

The Bulls still hope to set up a warm-up game next weekend but potential opponents Warrington have now fixed up to play Huddersfield at Wilderspool.

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