Castleford may have found the perfect match in Millward

Super League has certainly been a duller place since Ian Millward’s forced departure in 2006 so his second coming in the unlikely surrounds of Wheldon Road is a welcome announcement.

For one, we know we are going to get some interesting post-match opinions and views from the brash Australian who certainly has never been shy coming forward with a barbed comment or two.

Millward’s forthright, often controversial, stance on the game during his tenure at St Helens almost left as much as impression as the hoards of silverware he achieved.

Journalists would be licking the ends of their pencil – well, double-checking the batteries in their dictaphone – in sheer anticipation of what was to come if his side had been on the end of some dubious decision or an opponent’s illegal manoeuvre.

Referees, players, coaches, administrators... reporters as well... no one was safe.

By comparison, fellow countryman Michael Maguire has produced amazing results on the field in just 18 incredulous months at Wigan but you could chronicle the coach’s memorable post-match quips on the back of a postage stamp.

Likewise Bradford’s Mick Potter; one of the most likeable men in the game and a fine coach, but someone who is never going to change his ice-cool demeanour. He just does not do enraged.

With John Kear and his colourful pearls of wisdom soon departing Wakefield, and the always frank Terry Matterson leaving Castleford, it is good to know ‘Basil’ Millward’s imminent arrival will help offset their loss.

As one journalist remarked, tongue firmly in cheek, after Milward’s Leigh had secured a dramatic Northern Rail Cup win against Halifax in July: “Oh God, are we going to have to somehow try and prize a quote out of ‘Basil’ and Robbie Paul?”

It remains to be seen whether he is the right man to take Castleford, and all their undoubted promise, forward.

Millward’s exciting trophy-winning sides at Saints were not known for their defensive solidity, something which was also missing during his ill-fated spell in charge at Wigan.

Obviously, Castleford are a similar animal – all the attacking quality in the world but highly suspect when put under pressure so it is understandable why some fans may have doubts.

However, during his time away from the English top-flight, Millward has certainly restored his reputation and added to his coaching skills while back in the Australian NRL.

First as North Queensland Cowboys assistant and, secondly, – Tigers fans note – as Canberra Raiders’ defence coach, he has augmented his repertoire.

His rehabilitation has been complete during his latest spell at Leigh, helping them to Northern Rail Cup glory and well-placed to challenge for the Championship Grand Final.

All eyes will now be on what he can do with Castleford where he is a bold and high-profile appointment.

It is imperative he further develops thriving youngsters such as Joe Arundel, Jonathan Walker, Richard Owen and, most obviously, the freakishly talented hooker Daryl Clark.

The Tigers board have insisted that is non-negotiable and Millward will surely relish the oportunity to work with such quality.

If he can use his experience and contacts to secure a few seasoned professionals to operate alongside Danny Orr, Rangi Chase and company, the basis is there to build on Matterson’s early craft.

Obviously, sometimes Millward’s temper could go too far – one of the reasons for his acrimonious departure from Knowsley Road was an infamous verbal attack of Warrington’s then press officer – but it is unlikely he will make that mistake again.

In a more mature and rounded Millward, Castleford just may have found a perfect match.