Yet, when the new season kicks off at the Millennium Stadium against old rivals Wigan on Saturday night, the talk will still inevitably revolve to a large extent around their most famous old stager.

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With a weakened squad, and expected to suffer the league's statutory six-point penalty for any club going into administration, the loss of Obst, Ferguson and now Millard - all three of whom started in Saturday's season opener against local rivals Castleford at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff - are a huge blow to Wakefield coach John Kear.

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But, for the second time this season, just as with Saints' previous draw - the season-opening 16-16 thriller against Wigan at the Millennium Stadium in February - Eastmond was left frustrated with a drop-goal attempt.

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James, 31, has not played Test rugby for more than two years and was due to start at inside centre at the Millennium Stadium, although he has starred for Bath at fly-half this season.

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