FORMER England and Giants coach Tony Smith has signed a two-year extension to his contract with Warrington which will keep him at the Halliwell Jones Stadium until the end of the 2013 season.

Smith joined the Wolves on a two-and-a-half year deal just over 12 months ago, initially on a part-time basis before turning full-time after completing his England commitments in November.

The popular Australian, who took out dual citizenship two years ago, guided Warrington to Challenge Cup success within six months of succeeding James Lowes and is keen to build on their successful start to Engage Super League XV.

Smith’s Wolves beat the Giants in last year’s Cup final at Wembley, and they will meet again in the fifth round of this year’s competition at the Galpharm on Saturday, May 8.

"I’m not usually one to sign long-term contracts but I was delighted to do so," he said.

"The club has great ambition and is going in the right direction and I want to be part of it.

"I enjoy working with this group of players who continue to have a great desire to improve and so many things are going well off the field, with crowds and merchandising going through the roof."

Warrington chairman Steven Broomhead said: "We are delighted to secure the long-term future of one of the best, if not the best, coaches in the world.

"We have gone from strength to strength since winning the Challenge Cup and it’s great to get some long-term stability."

Warrington have also announced new deals for five players, including the long-serving Lee Briers, who was out of contract at the end of this season.

Briers and prop Paul Wood have signed new 12-month deals while centre or loose forward Simon Grix, hooker Mickey Higham and winger Rhys Williams have signed two-year extensions that will keep them at the club until the end of 2012.

French Cup finalists Lezignan set off by coach yesterday for their Challenge Cup fourth-round tie against Widnes, which has been re-arranged for tomorrow night at the Stobart Stadium.

The tie was postponed on Saturday because of the volcanic dust in the atmosphere which caused the cancellation of all flights across northern Europe.

Salford, Toulouse and Leigh all travelled overland to play their ties at the weekend and Lezignan have now set off on their trek to England.

And their reward for what would be a shock win over Widnes would be a home tie against Wigan in the fifth round on the weekend of May 7-9.