Powell confirmed as new Cas coach

Castleford have confirmed the appointment of Daryl Powell as their new head coach.

Powell, 47, moves on after five years at local rivals Featherstone, who he has led to the last three Championship league leaders’ shields.

He said: “Every coaching appointment I’ve had has made me really proud, and this is another proud moment for me. I’m really excited and can’t wait to start helping the team and the club to grow.

“Castleford Tigers is such a proud and traditional club and it has so much going for it. It is highly regarded in terms of developing its young players and the first team squad has an abundance of quality. I am looking forward to driving the standards and consistency of the team.

“I’ve had a wonderful experience as Head Coach of Featherstone Rovers. I’d like to think that I’ve left them in such a positive place. I’d like to thank everybody at the Club from top to bottom. The board, players, back room staff and the fans have been massively supportive of me and I wish them all the best for the future.”

Powell succeeds Ian Millward, who was sacked last month following a disappointing start to the season.

Danny Orr has taken charge for the last four games, leading the Tigers to Super League victories against Widnes and Hull KR.

Castleford chief executive Steve Gill said: “We have taken our time over the appointment of a new Head Coach because we wanted to ensure that we brought the right man on board and I’m convinced that Daryl Powell is that man.

“He is an excellent coach who has proven his skills at Featherstone Rovers over several seasons.

“We would also like to take the opportunity to thank the Featherstone Rovers Chairman, Mark Campbell for allowing us to speak to Daryl and Chief Executive, Craig Poskitt for ensuring a smooth transition.”

Powell’s first game in charge will be the trip to Catalan on Saturday May 18, with the Tigers already having been eliminated from the Challenge Cup.

Featherstone are expected to announce a new head coach shortly, and have been linked, ironically, with former Tigers coach Ian Millward.

Ryan Sheridan has been placed in temporary charge at the Bigfellas Stadium.