Brett Kearney’s inclusion is a massive boost for the Bulls heading into Sunday's Super League opener.

The full back has missed all three pre-season friendlies after a close-season operation on his sternoclavicular joint, which connects the sternum and the collarbone.

Kearney sustained the injury midway through last season but played through the pain barrier and then aggravated it during the defeat at Castleford in August.

However, he has returned to full training and it is hoped he will be fit to make an immediate return to action.

Dale Ferguson is ruled out with a back injury and Matty Blythe (cut thumb) remains a long-term absentee.

But Warrington loanee Danny Bridge could feature, while close-season signings Adam Henry, Luke George and Lee Gaskell are all set to make their debuts.

Castleford coach Daryl Powell could include as many as seven of his signings, with Luke Dorn and former Bulls captain Andy Lynch both set to start their second spells with the Tigers.

They do have some absentees, though, including props Ryan Boyle and Nathan Massey.