MICK Crane, who played a major part in the Wasps' promotion campaign in the second of two loan spells from Hull Kingston Rovers, is tonight expected to sign a one-year deal with York Rugby League Club.

The scrum half, who can also play at stand-off, has been playing for Hull Dockers in division two of the National Conference.

Wasps' coach Dean Robinson said: "We have agreed terms and Mick will sign tonight.

"He has done great jobs during his two loan periods over the past two seasons so it is nice to make him a fully-fledged York player.

"He now knows his home is at the club and he will feel more settled as a result. That should see an improvement in his game and I am sure he will become a valuable member of the squad."

Former York RL star Nick Pinkney has joined Halifax Blue Sox from Sheffield Eagles.

The centre has left Don Valley Stadium for Halifax yesterday in a five-strong player exchange deal.

The Eagles signed 27-year-old former Featherstone Rovers stand-off Martin Pearson, who turned them down in early 1997 to join Halifax.

England cap Pinkney joined Great Britain prop Paul Broadbent in moving to the Blue Sox with centre Daio Powell and second row forward Simon Baldwin following Pearson to the Sheffield.

Pinkney left York in May 1993 for Keighley Cougars in a £40,000 deal.

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