BRADFORD Bulls’ main sponsor for the last four years, Provident, will remain as stadium and main stand sponsors – but their name will no longer feature on the first-team shirt.

A new partnership, which will initially be for the one year left on their original agreement with the old club before its liquidation, will see the Bradford city centre-based company retain its naming rights to the stadium and stand.

They will continue to be main sponsors of the Bulls Women’s team and also remain as sponsor of the fans’ marquee within the Provident Stadium.

The company's brand will no longer feature on the first-team shirt in a move which they agreed to in order to help the club further its commercial objectives by releasing a valuable asset.

New shirt sponsors will be announced at the club's kit launch at Odsal tomorrow (from 10am).

Provident have been main sponsor of Bulls since 2013 rugby league season, sticking by the club through difficult times, which has included administration and relegation.

Sponsorship manager for Provident Paul Mitchell said: “Yes, it has been a tumultuous few years so far but we have thoroughly enjoyed supporting this great club and its incredible fans.

“The first year in any new venture is never easy and it will be no different for the ‘phoenix club’, so the decision for us to continue in partnership, albeit in a different capacity, was an easy one as we want to help them establish a sound footing for the long-term future of rugby league in Bradford.

“Fans are the lifeblood of any club. We are excited to continue recognising the commitment made week in, week out by the Bulls faithful with our ‘Supporting Bulls Supporters’ activities.

“On the pitch, the Bradford Bulls Women’s team had very successful inaugural year in 2016 which we were very proud to play a big part in. Women’s rugby league is growing at a pace and we are delighted to remain as their main sponsor.

“In partnership with the club and the Bradford Bulls Foundation, we shall also continue to explore ways of engaging new fans and encouraging inclusive participation in our great sport."

Bulls co-owner Andrew Chalmers said: “It has been a very busy three weeks to get the club to our first home match of the season this Sunday against Rochdale, made easier by the support of sponsors like Provident who have demonstrated genuine commitment to the club and our community by agreeing to terms for another season

“Provident Stadium has found its place in Bradford terminology over recent years and we’re glad to continue such a strong relationship this season. Coupled with the incredible growth in women’s rugby league in the past 12 months and Provident’s strong commitment to community and supporter activation, this partnership and 2017 as a whole is poised to be a season of strong growth for the club in all areas."