New Gateshead Thunder boss Shaun McRae is predicting big things for the revamped Bradford Bulls in 1999.

The coach of the Super League newcomers, who guided St Helens to successive Challenge Cup victories over the Bulls in 1996 and 1997, believes Wigan will surrender their crown in the new campaign which begins on the weekend of March 6/7.

Instead, McRae expects the Super League title to return across the Pennines, with the Bulls, boosted by the Paul brothers being re-united, installed as 9-2 third favourites battling it out for the big prize with deadly Yorkshire rivals Leeds.

Wigan were installed as 10-11 favourites with William Hill to retain the trophy they won in the Grand Final against Leeds at Old Trafford in October.

But McRae, who guided Saints to the inaugural Super League crown in 1996, believes Wigan have weakened their chances by off-loading too many players.

"Obviously you can't write Wigan off but I question their depth this time," said the Australian."

The Central Park giants' major departure was that of Henry Paul, who was allowed to join the Bulls, while Australians Mark Bell and Robbie McCormack retired.

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