HUDDERSFIELD Giants have given the Rugby Football League their full backing over the decision to move the Challenge Cup final to August.
From next season, the major event on the rugby league calendar will be switched from its traditional April date as part of a new television deal with the BBC.
It also means the early rounds of the competition will be staged later in the year.
The Giants - along with the other 11 Super League clubs - embark on their Challenge Cup campaign this weekend when they entertain French club Pia on Sunday (3.00).
But this will all change from 2005 as part of an agreement which runs until the end of the 2007 season.
It's a decision that could anger league traditionalists, although Huddersfield chief executive Ralph Rimmer believes the switch makes good sense.
"We applaud the RFL for taking this decision and we applaud the BBC for their pledge to offer even greater support to rugby league," said Rimmer. "The deal wasn't concluded until the RFL had consulted every club, and it's fair to say that support is widespread.
"One major concern was that a switch to August would take some of the gloss off the Super League Grand Final.
"But there will still be a seven-week gap between the Challenge Cup final and Grand Final in October, which is more than enough.
"However, a major key to the deal is the BBC's pledge to increase the quality and presentation of their coverage.
"It's fair to say that in the past their coverage wasn't great and was of detriment to the sport. We've received a cast-iron guarantee that this will no longer be the case.
"I believe this deal is another big step in taking our game forward."
The Giants immediate attentions are, of course, focused on Sunday's clash with Pia, with Rimmer predicting a physical encounter.
"They are a tough team, but we know we've got the players to handle their aggressive style of play," he added.
