Ben Crooks joins Leigh Centurions on permanent deal from Castleford

Castleford centre Ben Crooks, who spent the entire 2017 season on loan at Leigh, is to stay with the Centurions despite their relegation from Super League.

The 24-year-old was due to return to the Tigers for the final season of his three-year contract but has instead completed a permanent move to Leigh on a two-year deal after they paid a five-figure transfer fee.

Leigh owner Derek Beaumont said: "Ben is a great bloke to have around your club and has really bought into the place. He has been a solid performer for us all year and will only get better as time goes on.

"The fact he was prepared to commit to the club in either competition is another clear demonstration that the club is driving forward and our relegation is a minor setback."

Live Super League Grand Final

Castleford coach Daryl Powell said: "Ben has spent the entire 2017 season with Leigh Centurions and has been one of their outstanding players across the whole season.

"We are well covered in the centre and outside backs and we believe that it is in the best interest of both Ben and ourselves that he should stay with Leigh for the coming season."