Penrith coach John Lang has chosen a near grand final strength side for Friday's World Club Challenge against English champion Bradford in Huddersfield.

Lang was forced into two changes with Ryan Girdler and Scott Sattler the only players missing from the side which beat Sydney Roosters in last year's NRL grand final.

Former Cronulla winger Brett Howland comes onto the right wing, with Luke Lewis switching inside to the centres to replace Girdler who has a lung infection.

Kangaroo tourist Trent Waterhouse steps into the back row for Scott Sattler who is now at Wests Tigers, with veteran Colin Ward taking over the vacancy on the bench.

Bradford has been hit by injuries and coach Brian Noble may have to wait until the day of the game before announcing his team.

Penrith: Rhys Wesser, Brett Howland, Luke Lewis, Paul Whatuira, Luke Rooney, Preston Campbell, Craig Gower (capt); Joel Clinton, Luke Priddis, Martin Lang, Joe Galuvao, Tony Puletua, Trent Waterhouse. Reserves: Ben Ross, Colin Ward, Shane Rodney, Luke Swain.

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