WITH less than 24 hours left before D-day in rugby league's licence application process, Castleford Tigers have said they are confident of winning a Super League franchise.
The Rugby Football League will announce which 14 clubs are to get licences at 10am on Tuesday.
The Tigers' main hurdle is their stadium, with the RFL telling them they need to find a new home in the future.
"It is a nervous time but we are ve
ry confident," Tigers chief executive Richard Wright told BBC Radio Leeds.
Nineteen clubs have applied for a licence, with many believing that from the current Super League outfits Castleford are one of those at risk of failing to be selected.
Castleford have already signed up many of their big names and young stars to long-term contracts, signalling their confidence in winning a franchise.
Wright added: "The confidence comes from the strength of the bid, I've been at the heart of it and every aspect looks strong for me.
"I think there are three very solid reasons why Castleford should get a franchise.
"The first is the very strong supporter-base we have, I think Super League clubs are going to need to average 10,000 in the future.
"Our average is 7,500 which is impressive considering we've only won four games, with a new stadium coming we are confident we would get 10,000 at least.
"Secondly is junior development, we have a great reputation for developing talented youngsters.
"Also having the club in the town inspires youngsters to take up the game.
"Thirdly, within the three years of a franchise we would achieve nine out of the 10 Super League strategy aims, which is very important to the RFL. "
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