AS huge as the excitement is in Warrington for confirmation of the Daryl Clark signing, there will be equal disappointment in the Castleford area for the talent that has been lost to a rival.

Castleford Tigers bosses have highlighted the reason for selling the 21-year-old, who joins Warrington Wolves on a four-year deal from next season until November 2018.

The hooker came through the scholarship and academy ranks at his home-town club.

He made his first-team debut back in 2010, becoming a regular in the side the following year and has played a starring role in the Tigers' rejuvenation this year as Super League contenders and Challenge Cup finalists.

Steve Gill, the chief executive of Castleford Tigers, said: “It is with a heavy heart that Castleford Tigers can confirm the sale of Daryl Clark to Warrington Wolves at the end of this season.

"The sale was agreed back in 2013 when the club had a real threat of going into administration and this decision was made to ensure we had financial stability at the club.

"We negotiated Daryl’s services for this season as part of that sale and he has been an integral part of our success this season.

"The club would like to place on record our thanks to Daryl for his professional attitude and commitment this year and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Tigers head coach Daryl Powell said: “When I took on the head coach job last season the deal had already been done for Daryl to move to Warrington which secured the future of the club at that time.

"Whilst we obviously don't want to lose our best players this deal was in the best interests of the club.

"I have to say that Daryl has been an absolute pleasure to work with and it has been great to see him mature as a player and person this season. I know he will be working exceptionally hard to finish his time at the club with a Grand Final appearance.”

Clark added: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Castleford Tigers. It is my home-town club and I will always be a Cas fan.

"My proudest moment has been helping the team reach the Challenge Cup Final and I’ll continue to give my all to help Castleford Tigers reach the Super League Grand Final.”

* More reaction to follow. Watch this space