Ryan Hampshire has admitted he is relishing the opportunity to square off against his parent club Wigan.
The 21-year-old is on a one-year loan deal at Castleford Tigers, but is eligible to play against the Warriors this year.
Hampshire, who supported Wakefield as a youngster, admits he can’t wait to get stuck in at the Tigers next season.
“I am allowed to play against Wigan and I can’t wait for those games with the chance to go up against my old team-mates there,” he told the Pontefract and Castleford Express.
“It will be weird, but something I’m looking forward to.
“I’m also looking forward to the derbies with Wakefield. It’s not far from where I’m from so I am well aware of the rivalries.
“I was a Wakey fan growing up so I’m used to being in that Wakey end. But putting that aside, I have to be professional and do my best for Cas now and that’s what I will do.
“I’m used to seeing it from the other side, but I’m looking forward to playing with the Cas fans on my side. It’s usually a great atmosphere at the ground and one thing I really like is playing in front of passionate fans.
“I’ve been one of those fans in my time so I know what it means to people to support their team.”
In his spell at the Tigers, Hampshire is hopeful of lifting silverware.
“My personal aim for the season is first to play every week. But I want to win something as well,” he said.
“I’ve been involved in Wigan squads, but haven’t managed to play in a final and why not with Cas?
“Cas are definitely ready to take that extra step. I played in the Challenge Cup quarter-final when they beat Wigan a couple of years ago and went on to the final and they did well again last year.”
