Super League: Bradford Bulls sack coach Francis Cummins

Cummins' last game in charge was Sunday's 46-18 defeat at Salford Red Devils

Super League strugglers Bradford Bulls have sacked coach Francis Cummins.

The Bulls, who last week lost an appeal against a six-point deduction for going into administration, are eight points from safety with 11 games left.

Bradford have also parted company with assistant coach Lee St Hilaire.

"This is a decision which has not been made lightly and Bradford Bulls would like to thank both Francis and Lee for their efforts over the years," the club said in a statement.

"Both have worked under difficult circumstances during their time here, but the club recognises that a change of direction is required.

"The board of directors has the upmost respect for both Francis and Lee and wish them well with their futures."

Skipper Matt Diskin has been placed in caretaker charge of the team for Friday's home match against Hull KR.

Cummins took over at Odsal from Mick Potter ahead of the 2013 season and led the team to 10th in his first campaign.

Cummins replaced Potter after serving as the Australian's assistant for two seasons, including a period of working for free when the club were in administration in June 2012.

The Bulls were placed into administration for a second time in January this year and were deducted six points two games into the season.

The points loss prompted proposed new owners Bradford Bulls 2014 Ltd to pull out of their takeover deal as they considered relegation to be "almost a certainty".

The club were eventually taken over by local businessman Marc Green in March and moved back into positive points with a win over fellow strugglers Wakefield last month.

However, Sunday's 46-18 defeat by under-performing Salford, coupled with the Wildcats' win over bottom side London, means they will now need a huge turnaround in fortunes if they are to avoid the drop.