RYAN Shaw believes "ruthless duo" Jimmy Lowes and Karl Harrison will make the Bulls a force to be reckoned with next season.

Head coach Lowes has proved a tough taskmaster since taking the reins at Odsal in June.

Although he could not save the club from relegation, the legendary former hooker did engineer a general upturn in form which included a run of three successive wins over Wigan, Leeds and Hull FC.

His players have spoken of the increased intensity in training and Lowes' fiery approach has since been augmented by the appointment of Karl Harrison as his assistant.

Centre recruit Shaw said: "Jimmy and Karl have us well drilled already but they are more than aware of how difficult it will be next year.

"They're a ruthless duo but are always on hand to offer advice, which is great for the younger members of the squad.

"Training has been intense but really enjoyable and we are pulling in the same direction, which is important."

Shaw is no stranger to the Championship, having played in the division for home-town club Barrow.

The former Warrington academy player reckons the Bulls have a squad strong enough to cope with the challenges facing them in 2015.

He believes the upcoming pre-season friendlies against Castleford, Huddersfield and Leeds will provide the ideal preparation for the Championship opener at Leigh on February 15.

"Games in the Championship are generally of a slower pace, with the focus more on winning the battle of attrition in the middle, but it is not without its skill," said Shaw.

"We have a squad that is more than capable of coping with the variety of challenges we will face. We have an explosive pack with skilful players who can wreak havoc behind them.

"As a squad, we cannot wait for the pre-season friendlies and to pit our wits against Super League opposition.

"From then on we will see our level of performance, which will help our mindset ahead of a tough season."