Howarth injured his abdomen in Group 10’s loss to Group 11 on May 2, and hasn’t played for the Bears since.

Smith was involved in a car accident and has withdrawn from the Western Division squad as a result, leaving Sullivan with a hole at both hooker and some size absent in his pack.

St Pat’s premiership-winning hooker Benjamin John will likely start for the Rams against the Northern Tigers at Bathurst’s Carrington Park, leaving a spot on the bench, while Blayney bookend Terawhiti Cooper was invited by Sullivan to train with the squad after the devastating prop’s incredible form for the resurgent Bears.

Sullivan said he had no problem with calling in another player, and the Orange CYMS captain-coach said he had eyes watching Group 11’s finest in a bid to find the best possible additions ahead of the May 30 showdown with the Tigers.

“I called TC to come and have a training run with us,” Sullivan said.

“I watched him play against [Orange] Hawks and he was strong, and then I heard he was outstanding for Blayney against St Pat’s.

“Having spoken to him I know he’s itching to play rep footy again.

“I’ve got a couple of guys looking in Group 11 for players who’ve stood out since the trial game, so hopefully there’s an opportunity for one of those guys as well.”

In somewhat of a relief for Sullivan, Mudgee duo Jack Afamasaga and Demetrius Anu - who were selected for Western despite being injured - have both made strong returns with the Dragons and are expected to play for the Rams.

Round one of the championships is this Saturday in Forster, with Central Coast taking on South Coast and Canberra tackling North Coast.