HAVING for long been the darlings of neutral supporters, could this finally be the year that ‘Classy Cas’ turn into title contenders?

Daryl Powell’s side have been winning admirers for years for their attacking, expansive style of play and early indications show that is set to remain in 2017.

With the addition of Zak Hardaker at full-back, the defensive steel that has often been missing from their play looks to have been added.

While Hardaker’s arrival from Leeds inevitably caught the eye in their off-season recruitment, the return of Michael Shenton in the centres from long-term injury could prove just as crucial.

Another big question mark hanging over Wheldon Road is who would step into the record-breaking shoes of the acrimoniously-departed Denny Solomona.

40 tries is a big hole to fill, but their 44-16 demolition of Leigh Centurions in the opening round showed that points would still be easy to come by.

However, with the creative wizardry of Rangi Chase and Luke Gale in the halves, the Tigers will have no shortage of ammunition.

ONE TO WATCH – Mike McMeeken:

ENGLAND boss Wayne Bennett likes the look of the second-rower and has named the 22-year-old in his elite performance squad.

With one man-of-the-match award already under his belt in 2017, McMeeken is one option for a talented England back row.

Tigers 19-man squad: Rangi Chase, Matt Cook, Greg Eden, Luke Gale, Zak Hardaker, Andy Lynch, Nathan Massey, Mike McMeeken, Grant Millington, Luke Million, Adam Milner, Greg Minikin, Joel Monaghan, Junior Moors, Ben Roberts, Jesse Sene-Lefao, Michael Shenton, Gadwin Springer, Jake Webster.