Hull proposal would test England squad

While the prospect of lining up together may infuriate some fans of the arch-rivals, Rovers chairman Neil Hudgell believes it would be a worthwhile exercise and talks have begun with all relevant parties.

“It is a project I am looking to promote,” he said.

“A joint representative fixture featuring the two Hull sides playing either an England team or as a warm-up to the Four Nations or World Club Challenge.

“I think it would have a unique pull to it and attract great interest.

“I have had some preliminary discussions with (chief executive) James Rule at Hull FC as well as with the RFL, and Mr Allam is very keen to support it at the KC Stadium.

“We may have some hurdles to clear to deliver it but I certainly think the concept has some mileage.

“I think it would prove to be a very powerful image of the strength of the game in the city, as well as having a commercial value to it.”

The two Hull clubs have already joined forces to make a bid to host games in the 2013 World Cup and a joint team would represent a strong squad given the quality of each side’s overseas contingent.

The likes of Hull FC’s ex-Australian forwards Craig Fitzgibbon, Mark O’Meley could link with former Kangaroo team-mates Willie Mason, Mick Vella and Joel Clinton, while the calibre of half-backs such as Michael Dobson and Sean Long would certainly test an England line-up who are constantly looking for stronger challenges in their bid to prepare better for major tournaments.

Also, currently, the only players who are likely to feature for the international side from East Yorkshire are Hull FC winger Tom Briscoe and possibly Rovers counterpart Peter Fox.