Matterson opts for Orr to resume leadership at Castleford

The 32-year-old scrum-half led the Tigers in his first spell with the club from 1997-2003 before leaving to join Wigan.

Orr, who also had a four-year stint with Harlequins before re-joining Castleford in the close season, takes over from hooker Ryan Hudson.

Tigers coach Terry Matterson said: “The main reason for the change was that I was looking for a captain who plays for 80 minutes in most games and Danny fits that bill.

“Danny has plenty of experience under his belt and the position he plays is ideal for the role. He leads from the front in everything he does.

“With the emergence of Adam Milner in the hooking position, Raz (Hudson) won’t be out there as much as he has had to be in previous seasons.

“It’s a really good opportunity to rotate our hookers and I think we’ll get a lot more out of them. This will also ease the burden on Raz, although he’ll still be a leader in the side amongst some of the other senior guys as well.”

Hull KR coach Justin Morgan says he is “comfortable” despite the fact marque signing Willie Mason is yet to arrive in England.

The former Australia forward, whose signature in September made him arguably the most high-profile recruit in the history of Super League, is currently stranded in Australia waiting for a visa, and will not be present for next weekend’s season opener with Hull in Cardiff.

It is hoped he will available in time for Rovers’ first home game against Catalans on February 27.

“I’m disappointed but I’m not frustrated,” said Morgan. “The interest is there because he’s such a big-name player.”

Featherstone begin their season against Doncaster tonight in the Northern Rail Cup but will do so without back-row Ross Divorty, who faces three months out due to a knee injury.

Halifax should have Ben Black fit in time to travel to Swinton.