NEW Bulls recruit Ben Kavanagh is relishing the challenge of forcing his way into Jimmy Lowes’ top seventeen.

The imposing forward has arrived from Widnes after spending much of last season on loan at Wakefield.

He faces competition from established front-rowers Adam Sidlow and Paul Clough as well as Steve Crossley, Dan Fleming, Epalahame Lauaki, Jonny Walker and Mitch Clark.

But Kavanagh is up for the fight that lies ahead and should feature in Sunday’s opening friendly against Leeds at Headingley.

The Scotland international said: “You want that kind of competition because it keeps you on your toes and playing well.

“I’m looking to push for a place in the seventeen by fighting hard during the rest of pre-season and impressing in the two friendlies.

“I’m relishing the challenge of establishing myself here.

“The Championship is a lot more physical but Super League is faster because every club is full-time and the teams are fitter.

“However, I believe the Championship is slowly catching up now with more teams going full-time.

“I think Leigh will be the team to beat this year. With the money they have thrown at it, their squad is absolutely ridiculous for this league.”

Kavanagh grew up in Elland as a Halifax supporter but he revealed: “I had a season ticket at Bradford one year.

“I must have been about fourteen or fifteen and they had a great side.

“I was a Halifax fan but I did support Bradford for that one season and went to every game at Odsal.

“Bradford are a massive name in rugby league and should still be in Super League now.”