WELSH international Martin Hall looks set to miss the start of Wigan's second phase of the Visa World Club Championship next month.

The 28-year-old hooker needs surgery to correct a broken thumb which he suffered in Wigan's final defeat Down Under at the hands of the Canberra Raiders.

But Warriors' chairman Jack Robinson has ruled out a plunge into the transfer market for a replacement, despite continued links with Halifax number nine Paul Rowley.

He said: "Martin is expected to be out for up to four weeks. He has had X-rays and the doctors have confirmed it needs an operation."

Great Britain forward Mick Cassidy is likely to deputise for the injured Hall against Sheffield Eagles as Wigan return to domestic action at Central Park on Sunday.

But coach Eric Hughes could throw in GB Academy international Ian Talbot for his Wigan debut.

The Wigan Board and Hughes will discuss prop Neil Cowie's future at a meeting today. The fiery prop was sent home early from Australia after failing to show for a vital training session before the Canberra match.

Robinson added: "I have spoken to Neil, but will not pre-judge the situation until I've had a proper discussion with Eric Hughes and Chief Executive Dave Bradshaw about the matter."

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