West Bowling secured their National Conference League Premier Division survival on the final day three weeks ago, but they have been back in the news this week for an unusual reason.

Wakefield Trinity look likely to return to Betfred Super League next year based on their IMG score, with the top flight running a strict overseas quota, unlike the Championship.

And with Wakefield having just signed Seth Nikotemo from Gold Coast Titans, that left them with eight overseas players under contract for 2025, one more than is permitted in Super League.

But Love Rugby League has revealed that Trinity have found a loophole with one of their key forwards, Isaiah Vagana.

The New Zealander was born in 2000, just months before his father, Joe Vagana, signed for the Bradford Bulls.

Joe Vagana celebrates Challenge Cup success with Jimmy Lowes on his back in 2003.Joe Vagana celebrates Challenge Cup success with Jimmy Lowes on his back in 2003. (Image: PA.)

The elder Vagana was with Bulls from 2001 to 2008, while his son took his first steps in junior rugby league down the road with West Bowling, from the age of five.

Vagana Jr spent over three years there, which means he qualifies for an exemption.

Wakefield have successfully lodged that with an RFL, meaning their overseas numbers are down to seven, the maximum permitted in Super League.