TOM Butler and Jamie Marshall will be joined by two newcomers from the area when they head back out to Dubai with the International Bulldogs later this month.

Butler’s former Askam team-mate Mike Wilson and Walney Central’s Mike Whitehead will accompany the pair in the International Vets competition at the Emirates Dubai Rugby Sevens, which starts on November 30.

Former Barrow Raiders player Marshall and Butler were both part of the Bulldogs squad last year, which is comprised entirely of rugby league players.

Formerly sanctioned by BARLA, the team have become regulars in the over-35s tournament in Dubai, which is played in the 10-a-side variant of rugby union.

The pool stages see the teams split into seven groups of four, with the pool winners entering the Trophy and the second-placed team going into the Plate when the knock-out rounds commence.

The Bulldogs face the Moscow Lads and Jinns Exiles on the opening day of the tournament, with their final group match against Mo Bro Veterans on December 1.

The second day features the quarter-finals too, which the semi-finals and final bringing the curtain down on the International Vets on December 2.

The Bulldogs are not the only rugby league players taking on their union counterparts this year, with the Joining Jack team featuring a host of ex-professionals such as former Wigan stars Gary Connolly, Denis Betts, Andy Farrell and Jason Robinson, and St Helens legend Paul Sculthorpe.

Wilson, Butler, Whitehead and Marshall are grateful for the support of their personal sponsors, which has enabled them to take part in the tour.

Crooklands Autobody, Definitions Ulverston, Furness Tiles and Flooring, HBP, JA Gordan Safety LTD, JD Joinery, Long Lane Garage, Marco Civil Solutions, PPS Ulverston, RFM Accountants, Roan and Freddie Fagan, Ross Estate Agencies, and Roy and Janet Lewney have all come forward to support Askam pair Butler and Wilson.

Advanced Roofing Supplies, Nail Henderson at Walney Spar, Kendall Brothers Roofing LTD have thrown their support behind Whitehead, and Marshall has been sponsored by Biggar Electrical Services LTD.