BULLS hope to have some big hitters back for their pre-season finale at Leeds - but won’t be taking any chances.

Sunday’s clash at Headingley is the last warm-up action before the Championship begins with Whitehaven’s visit to Odsal on February 5.

Michael Lawrence, Bodene Thompson, George Flanagan senior and Dec Patton were not involved in the Bulls’ opening warm-up game against Dewsbury.

Mark Dunning had also not named his new captain or deputy in the 21 for the Huddersfield friendly which was frozen off. Lawrence was recovering from a recent illness and Thompson has been on parental leave.

Dunning aims to send a strong line-up into battle with the Rhinos but insists he is right not to gamble with players in pre-season.

He said: “There are no concerns. It’s me and our performance team wrapping people in cotton wool.

“There’s absolutely no sense or reasoning behind risking anybody that’s not 100 per cent for a pre-season trial.

“It’s certainly something I won’t do and hopefully they’ll be all right for Leeds.”

Dunning stressed they are all experienced campaigners who will not be hampered by a lack of warm-up minutes as the real business draws closer.

“We’re not talking about novices here but senior pros that know how to handle their own body,” he added.

“They are hardened and used to the rigours of rugby league and first-team football. That gives us a little bit of comfort as well.

“We’re absolutely content that we’re doing the right thing by the player and the right thing by the squad.

“Hopefully the guys will make it for Leeds but it’s no big drama. I’m sure they’ll all be ready for Whitehaven.”

Patton is finally clear of the seven-game ban slapped on him for the gouging incident against Halifax in last year’s summer bash. Flanagan senior is waiting for his first action since an operation on his thumb.

Dunning said: “The downside of Sunday (being off) and the real disappointment is probably for some of the younger blokes who were going to get another opportunity.

“They might not get that against Leeds. We’ll have a look this week and address things but I certainly won’t be taking a squad of any more than 21.

“If there are a couple of the senior boys back in then it means a few of the younger blokes will miss out.

“But the week after, the reserves have got a friendly up at Workington that will be a good hit-out. We’re comfortable that we’re managing expectations and game-time.”