Young wicket keeper batsman Owen Smith has made an immediate impact at Castleford CC after signing for the Yorkshire Premier League North champions for the 2026 season.

After hitting 90 on his league debut for the club the previous week Smith followed up with a controlled unbeaten half century to guide Castleford home for a seven-wicket success at Beverley Town.

It made it two wins from two for the reigning champs as they have made a strong start in their bid to retain their crown.

After restricting Beverley to 176-9 from their 50 overs Castleford recovered from the early loss of Brayden Clark and David Wainwright to move to 146-2 as opener Luke Edwards and Smith combined for an 113-run stand.

Luke Edwards and Owen Smith combined in a match clinching century partnership for Castleford CC. Picture: Castleford CC

placeholder image — Luke Edwards and Owen Smith combined in a match clinching century partnership for Castleford CC. Picture: Castleford CC

Edwards hit 65, including eight fours, while Smith went on to join with fellow new signing Hayden Walsh Jr (12no) to see the team over the line with more than seven overs to spare.

Smith ended on 68no, having hit a six and six fours in his knock.

In Beverley’s innings it was the wily spinner Wainwright who proved Castleford’s most successful bowler as he took 3-21 from 13 overs.

Castleford seconds have also won their first two matches in the YPLN’s Division Two Ebor.

They beat Hillam & Monk Fryston by four wickets after bowling them out for 103 with Findlay Anderson taking 4-26 and Dylan Tudge 3-32.

Recent recruit Nick Bresnan top scored in Castleford’s reply with 49.