Four of them have been given a squad number specifically for tonight’s game as coach Daryl Powell protects some of his big names ahead of next Saturday’s Betfred Challenge Cup final against St. Helens.
Who are the young people and what is their background?
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Date of birth: May 1, 2003 (at the age of 18).
Amateur club: Beverley Braves and West Hull.
On his debut, “I found out that I was playing at the Salford preview meeting earlier this week and Powelly wrote it on the board.
“It felt surreal. It’s good that there are other guys making their debut and there are eight players in the squad that I went through the Academy system with.
“It will be special to do it with them that day.”
Date of birth: September 16, 2002 (aged 18).
On his debut: “I’ve been with Cas since the start of my scholarship.
“It’s a bit overwhelming to make my debut because it was a bit of a shock, but I’m looking forward to it.
“My time at Cas was excellent because the coaches and the other players are always trying to help you.”
Amateur club: Heworth (York).
Position (s): Hooker, half back.
On his debut: “I’ve been with the association since the second year of my scholarship and have gone through the academy system.
“I’ve been training with the first team since pre-season.
“I was told there was a young team going to play, but when I saw my name on this board it was a proud moment for me.
“My mom and dad will be proud too, so it’s going to be a good day.
“It’s a really great club because I’ve felt welcome with them since I’ve been here.
“Even when I went to the Tigers’ Talent Path Meetings and stood trial, I’ve always felt very welcome and I’ve loved it ever since.”
Date of birth: May 25, 2003 (aged 18).
On his debut: “I’ve been with Castleford on the Scholarship Program since I was 15 and it has been great.
“All the coaches helped me a lot and all the players I played with all along.
“My debut was a childhood dream.
“I can’t wait to come out with the guys and do a great job.
“Making my debut at Cas will mean a lot to me because it’s the only club I’ve been to so it’s huge for me to get my debut.”
Date of birth: May 6, 2003 (aged 18).
Amateur club: West Hull ARLFC.
On his debut: “It means the world to make my debut, because that’s what I dreamed of as a child.
“I can’t wait for the opportunity.
“I’ve been with Cas for three and a half years and started at the scholarship level.
“It was a great experience; I have to travel from Hull, but I love every minute of it.
“One of the trainers, Danny [Evans], called to say I was going to make my debut and I just took the opportunity; I could not believe it.”
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