Super League partners Castleford Tigers have suspended their player exchange deal with York Rugby League Club.

The Super League side have recalled hooker Gareth Dobson and forward Spencer Hargrave until the Wasps issue an official statement on their current cash crisis.

Tigers utility back Jamie Benn, also on loan at York, has signed for First Division Keighley Cougars following the recent turmoil at Huntington Stadium.

Coach Dean Robinson today confirmed the three departures, leaving him with a threadbare squad for Sunday's scheduled Second Division fixture against Bramley at Headingley.

Forward Mick Ramsden is unable to play until Wakefield Trinity receive outstanding transfer cash and a Rugby Football League transfer embargo prevents York re-signing trialist winger Paul White.

And several other players told the Evening Press they are ready to quit the club over the cash problems, which came to a head in a stormy meeting with directors last week.

The club are believed to have offered the players a percentage of money owed to them, with the remainder being settled at the end of the season, dependent on gaining promotion.

Robinson declined to comment on the club's financial situation, adding that the players and coaching staff were also awaiting a statement from the board.

"I am in the same position as everyone else and myself and the players will meet this week and one would hope there will be an official statement," he said.

The coach added that Benn's decision to go to Keighley - he kicked four goals and a drop goal in their 25-14 victory over Whitehaven yesterday - was understandable.

Said Robinson: "Jamie has gone to Keighley and all three were pulled back by Cas in the current climate until the club officially state their intention.

"Jamie had asked Cas for a transfer and I think they were going to let him go on a free. We were interested in signing him and I was speaking to his agent. While we are like this he has sought pastures new and good luck to the lad, you can't blame him."

Meanwhile, the York board are maintaining their silence over the club's financial position.

Chief executive Phil Elliott, director Ken Hunter and general manager Mick Scaife have declined to comment and chairman Trevor Cox was today unavailable for comment.

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