CASTLEFORD stepped up their team strengthening in readiness for their return to Super League with the signing of second row forward Matt Whitaker, pictured right, and prop Andy Bailey.
Both 23-year-olds have signed one-year deals with the Tigers, whose only new signing before now was that of Danny Sculthorpe on loan from Wigan.
Whitaker did, of course, began his career at the Giants before joining Widnes, and he made 20 appearances for the relegated Vikings this year.
"Castleford are a club with a lot of history and the new coach Terry Matterson has a wealth of experience, so I am really looking forward to linking up with them," he said.
Former Featherstone Rovers player Bailey spent the second half of last season on loan to Castleford from Super League club Hull.
Tigers chief executive Richard Wright said: "Matt and Andy are both very good acquisitions for our 2006 squad which is beginning to take some shape now.
"We know that we will need more strength in depth next year and when our recruitment is completed we believe that we will have options in all areas."
