Catalans Dragons have included rugby union convert Jean Philippe Baile in their squad for Saturday's opening engage Super League match at Castleford.

The 20-year-old utility player moved last year from Toulouse to Union Treiziste Catalane (UTC), the Dragons' feeder club, and caught the eye of coach Mick Potter in the early-season French Championship matches.

"He's been playing rugby union for two years and we thought it would take him half a season before he was ready," said Potter. "But he's had a really good pre-season and this is his reward.

"I'm not quite sure what his best position is. He can play centre, five-eighth, second row and lock and that versatility gives us some options."

Baile, registered as a Super League player this week, is likely to be 18th man on Saturday but the Dragons will give debuts to Australian second rower Dane Carlaw and ex-Castleford forward Olivier Elima.

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