The 2003 Origin clash was launched last night with all parties delighted with Odsal as the choice of venue for the Yorkshire versus Lancashire clash.

The two sides will converge on the historic ground on July 2 for a one-off encounter which will act as a trial for Great Britain's autumn Ashes series.

Castleford's Graham Steadman has succeeded Bulls boss Brian Noble in the Yorkshire coaching role and is already looking forward to the big game. "When I heard Odsal was the venue for this game I was delighted," said Steadman, who played alongside Noble when Bradford's spiritual home last hosted Yorkshire back in 1985.

"I played there 18 years ago against New Zealand and now things have come full circle.

"It is probably the perfect venue for this game, you get 15,000 in Odsal and it will be a great atmosphere.

"It will bring back a lot of memories for me."

Steadman's opposite number will be Warrington's Paul Cullen who has replaced Saints coach Ian Millward in the Lancashire role.

Although Noble has this year stepped down from the Yorkshire coaching role, there is still expected to be a heavy Bulls influence on the pitch at Odsal.

The Challenge Cup winners are expected to provide players for both counties while Bulls football manager and media guru Stuart Duffy, pictured, has been handed the manager's job for the county side.

"As a Yorkshireman, I am honoured to be given the football manager's role," said Duffy, who played a similar role for the Bulls when they triumphed in last year's Middlesex Sevens.

"And with the game being played at Odsal it is particularly special occasion. It is also a great honour for the Bradford Bulls to be hosting such a prestigious event."

Leeds coach Darryl Powell, who will be bringing the Rhinos to Odsal next Friday for their Super League grudge match against the Bulls, will be Steadman's assistant while Wigan's Mike Gregory will assist Cullen in the Lancashire role.