Former York Wasps' star Michael Smith has linked up with Superleague giants Castleford Tigers for a second spell.

The 24-year-old New Zealander, who was only forced to quit the Wasps because of the clubs' recent cash crisis, has been given a contract for the new Superleague season by the Tigers. The Kiwi back row forward had an initial 23-game spell with the Wheldon Road club in 1998 before then moving to Hull.

But now he is back and Cas coach Stuart Raper believed Smith would be a significant addition.

Raper said today: "We always thought Michael could play a bit. It was just a matter of attitude. But he has turned it around and by all accounts was playing well with York, so he could be a good asset to us."

Smith was unable to stay with the Wasps under the terms of the Creditors Voluntary Agreement in which the squad agreed a new pay structure whereby they will be paid on a percentage of gate receipts.

As reported late yesterday, the new date for the Wasps' clash with Gateshead Thunder has been arranged for Thursday, February 22 (kick off 7.30pm).

Wasps coach Lee Crooks said: "Everybody wants to play but because of the weather we've been unable to do that. However, I would imagine there will be no problems with the Silk Cut Challenge Cup game next week (third round tie at home to Oulton, kick off 3pm) and we should be up and running."

As reported last week, the Wasps versus Sheffield game has been rearranged for Sunday, February 25 (kick off 3pm), subject to neither side making the fifth round of the Silk Cut Challenge Cup.

Updated: 11:29 Tuesday, January 23, 2001