Sporting Digest: Rugby League

WIGAN are poised to sign a leading Australian Test centre after releasing their utility back Sam Panapa to Salford. Panapa will leave in a pounds 15,000 deal on returning from the Wigan World Club Challenge in Brisbane after agreeing a two-year contract with a further year's option. Jack Robinson, the Wigan chairman, said: 'We don't really want to lose Sam, but at 32 we can't offer him more than a 12-contract.'

WIDNES yesterday appointed Tony Myler as their fourth coach in three years. The former Great Britain stand-retired last season through injury and succeeds Phil Larder, who joined Keighley, last week. Jim Mills, the Widnes chairman, said: 'It is Tony's first coaching job, but we know he has the respect of the players.'