[citation needed] This is the second time in four seasons that Castleford, (who have never won the trophy, to date) finished as runner-up.
Due to the introduction of a new knock-out competition (the Player's No.6 Trophy), and the New Zealand national team's upcoming tour of Great Britain, the Yorkshire County Committee decided to stage the county cup much earlier than previous seasons, with the first round taking place at the end of July.
[1] Leeds objected to the decision, and withdrew from the competition due to their Headingley ground being used for cricket during the summer.
[2] The committee refused to accept Leeds' withdrawal from the competition, and included them in the draw for the first round.
[3] Hull Kingston Rovers were also given a walkover after Dewsbury were forced to withdraw due a pay dispute with their players.