FRENCH LESSON

Bevan's relishing kick-off with blast from the past

- DAVE CRAVEN

WIGAN'S Bevan French is ready for Castleford's cheerless welcome, admitting: "It reminds me why I play!"

The Aussie superstar hopes to begin the champions' title defence in style when the BBC televise a live Super League game for the first time tonight.

Anyone switching on could see the elusive stand-off bewitching defenders with his silky skills.

But Castleford's rickety old Wheldon Road ground, where fans are packed on terraces so close to the action, is like a blast from the past.

French said: "I'm not going to lie. It's a tough place to go and prepare. Those little changing rooms don't really give you much space to warm up and get ready.