Harris to face Scots

Wales' bid to qualify for the 2006 World Cup received a massive boost on Tuesday when dual-code international Iestyn Harris made himself available for their match against Scotland next month.

The 30-year-old withdrew from the Great Britain squad to tour Australia and New Zealand to concentrate on his club commitments with defending Super League champions Bradford Bulls. But he kept the door open for Wales and has agreed to rearrange his holiday in order to play in their opening qualifying tie against Scotland on October 29.

Wales Rugby League executive chairman Mark Rowley said: "Iestyn confirmed his availability with us on Tuesday and I'm over the moon with this news."

He added: "We've been working hard to help him adjust his holiday dates so he can play and the fact that he was willing to do that in the first place proves his dedication to his country.

"We're all looking forward to seeing him back in a Wales shirt on October 29 in Bridgend."

The former Leeds captain, who made his debut for Wales 12 years ago, last played for them in the 2000 World Cup semi-final against Australia in Huddersfield and is still the country's record points-scorer for with 145 from his 17 games.

Harris switched codes in a deal said to be worth £1.5million five years ago and played for Wales in the 2003 World Cup but returned to League two years ago, citing family reasons.

Wales are still hoping to persuade St Helens hooker Keiron Cunningham to play against Scotland. He, too, has called time on his Great Britain career but has indicated that he may continue to play for Wales.

Wales are hoping to join England, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and France, who are automatic qualifers, for the final stages of the 2006 World Cup in Australia.