The Bulls have dismissed reports linking them with controversial Australian hooker Mark Riddell.

There are strong rumours in Sydney that the Challenge Cup winners want the 22-year-old St George Illawarra star as a replacement for James Lowes, who is retiring as a player at the end of this season.

However, Bulls coach Brian Noble said today: "We haven't got an overseas quota spot for Riddell.

"But we have been linked with everyone - and why not because we are a top club?"

Riddell is a cult figure with fans of the southern Sydney club, his exuberant style, goal-kicking salute and post-match celebrations making him one of the most popular players in the NRL.

However, his nickname is Pig and he has previously been dropped from a starting spot with the Dragons for being at least five kilograms overweight.

In recent years Riddell has told close friends that he would like to leave Sydney to either play in England or tour the world.

But he is contracted to St George Illawarra for next season, although South Sydney and Cronulla have both been linked to him with offers of up to $230,000 said to be waiting for him if he can escape the final year of his contract.

Bulls' Senior Academy Championship match against Widnes at Old Widnesians RUFC last night was called off because the pitch was too hard. It has been re-arranged for tomorrow (noon).