Rugby League: Paul's cup chances waver

LONDON - Kiwi rugby league coach Frank Endacott has his fingers crossed that key back Robbie Paul will be fit for the World Cup in Britain in October and November after suffering major injuries in a Super League match.

It was initially feared that Paul, the Bradford Bulls captain, could be out for the rest of the season after reportedly breaking two ribs and puncturing a lung in the match against Halifax Blue Sox on Sunday.

But he is now expected to be back in action in four to six weeks.

Paul, aged 24, lay motionless on the pitch for several minutes following a heavy challenge. He was eventually carried off on a stretcher and taken to hospital.

"He was on the ground and received a good set of knees from a player who was later sent from the field," Endacott said yesterday.

"The reports are that he will be right within four to six weeks so that's good news for us."

Paul has been kept in hospital for a few days as a precaution.

- NZPA