Withers has made a big impact at Bulls since joining in 1999

Bradford's Michael Withers faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after a repeat operation.

The 26-year-old has undergone surgery on his lower stomach for the second time in six months.

Withers has only turned out four times for the Bulls this season and missed out on the Challenge Cup victory, pulling out at the last minute.

A spokesman for the club revealed that the Australian would be out, "for the foreseeable future".

There was some good news from the treatment table as utility back Karl Pratt has recovered from a tooth infection and will be available for Sunday's game against Castleford.

The Bulls have also boosted their squad by signing up three players from local amateur club Dudley Hill.

Neil Cheeryholme (prop forward), David Halley (half-back) and Craig Kopczak (prop/second row), will arrive at the Odsal Stadium in time to see the team parade the Challenge Cup before kick-off.