Knaresborough talent Greg Minikin signs two-year deal at Super League giants Castleford Tigers

The 20-year-old centre, from Knaresborough, has signed for the Super League giants from York City Knights, who he has put in a number of telling performances since making his debut against Catalan Dragons in 2012.

Castleford ended the Super League season in fifth and were runners-up in the Challenge Cup in the 2014 campaign.

A delighted Minikin, whose family members Noel and Lewis play rugby union for Harrogate, said: “I’m really excited, I’ve always wanted to play professional Rugby League since I was a kid.

“Daryl was a big part in me choosing the Tigers, I’ve heard nothing but good words about him as a coach and as a person, he’s very good at developing young players and I can’t wait to work with him.

“The club is on the up and came close to silverware in the last two years. It’s an exciting time to join with a new stadium on the horizon, the club is clearly growing and moving in the right direction.”

Minikin started his rugby league career at Wetherby Bulldogs before moving onto the City Knights.

He bagged 16 tries in 25 games for York in the Kingstone Press League One this year and impressed St Helens captain Jon Wilkin, who tipped the youngster to make it to Super League sooner rather than later.

Tigers head coach Daryl Powell has been equally impressed with the youngster and is excited to get him on board for 2016.

He said: “Greg Minikin is an outstanding prospect.

“I have been really impressed with his ability during his time at York. He is a naturally strong player with a great instinct for the game.

“I’m confident he will be a consistent Super League player in the near future and I look forward to our coaching staff helping him achieve his potential.”

The chance to learn from experienced team-mates was a big pull for Minikin, who added: “Michael Shenton is a class player, there are lots of experienced senior players here who I’m looking forward to developing under.

“Pre-season training is just around the corner and I’m really excited to get to know my new team-mates and embrace full time training.”