BRADFORD Bulls have confirmed that they are entering the RFL's 125th anniversary invitational tournament this autumn, but have done so on the basis that fans will be allowed to attend games by then.

The proposed cup competition was put to second and third tier clubs after the abandonment of the Championship and League One seasons a couple of weeks ago.

The RFL were initially hoping for a 16-team tournament, starting in early October and finishing with a final in late November.

But with a number of teams already confirming they won't be playing, including Keighley Cougars, Sheffield Eagles, Widnes Vikings and Swinton Lions, it is understood the RFL would be willing to go ahead with as little as an eight-team tournament.

Bulls have shown enthusiasm for this tournament from the start, both through chief executive Mark Sawyer and head coach John Kear, so their decision to enter was widely expected.

In a club statement, Bulls said: "Bradford Bulls can confirm we will be entering the RFL's invitational tournament this autumn – celebrating the game's 125th anniversary!

"The decision has been taken with priority for staff, player and supporter safety paramount.

"Players and staff have all been consulted and the feedback is that they were fully behind the club entering the competition.

"We have secured the required regular testing for the players and coaching staff through the local health authority – this has been agreed up to the RFL's requirements.

"We are obviously aware of the situation within Bradford and Kirklees and will watch events closely (to see) whether it will be possible for crowds to attend matches and we have entered the tournament on the basis that it will be possible to at least start with crowds.

"We will await further updates from the RFL following the closure of entries on 14th August."