The Bulls have shelved their policy of recent seasons of not playing a money-spinning festive season match, announcing that they will play Warrington Wolves at the Halliwell Jones Stadium on January 2.

The game marks the start of the Bulls' preparations for the World Club Challenge game against Wests Tigers on Friday, February 3.

The club's international players won't be available as they don't report for duty until January 4 but the match should provide the first chance for departed Bulls Stuart Reardon and Rob Parker to square off against their former team-mates.

Coach Brian Noble is looking forward to blooding some of the club's new talent in the match.

"I am delighted we have been able to arrange this game against high-quality opposition," said Noble.

"We are aiming to hit the ground running when we take on the Australian champions. We will be fielding a very competitive side and it will give our supporters an early opportunity to see some of our new signings, including Stanley Gene and Adam Watene, in action.

"It will also be a great opportunity for some of our younger players to show what they can do against a very good Warrington side." Warrington coach Paul Cullen plans to field a side containing youth and experience.

"We have attempted to blend senior, under-21 and under-18 players into a squad to compete in serious trial games over the Christmas and New Year period," said Cullen.

"This policy protects the international players and allows those recovering from operations to fully rest and rehabilitate for the forthcoming Super League season.

"It also provides us with the opportunity to work combinations that may be used in Super League XI."