OXFORD RL have announced a new partnership with Super League club Castleford.

The agreement will include off-field and player development as well as a dual-registration agreement.

This will allow Castleford players to turn out for Oxford in Kingstone Press League 1.

Blues head coach Tim Rumford said: “I’m very excited at the prospect of this partnership, it’s positive and encouraging for the club.”

Meanwhile, Oxford were beaten 42-4 in a friendly at Coventry Bears as they prepare for their league campaign.

And they will host Lock Lane at Iffley Road on February 28 in the third round of the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup.