Castleford Tigers Director explains star player’s exit

Jack Broadbent has been a key part of the Castleford Tigers squad since joining from the Leeds Rhinos in 2023. The versatile back can cover any position in the bank line and has been a regular in the Castleford side this season.

Therefore, it was a shock to many Tigers fans to hear the news that Broadbent will depart. He has joined Super League rivals Hull KR on a season-long loan, ahead of a permanent switch in 2025.

Now, Danny Wilson, the Director of Rugby Operations at Castleford, has explained the motive behind Broadbent’s switch.

New Challenge for Broadbent

Speaking in a statement on the Tigers website, Wilson wished Broadbent the best for the future. He also stated that the Tigers had wanted to keep him.

“We wish Jack all the best in his future. He’s been a great addition to our squad over the last few years. He came in to prove himself in Super League.

“He’s established himself in the team at Cas and had some exciting moments. We would have loved to have kept him, but he sees his future elsewhere. We completely understand.”

According to Wilson, Broadbent wanted a new challenge in his career. The move to Craven Park gives him this opportunity.

“Sometimes, people want a new challenge and for Jack in the stage of his career, he wants to pursue other opportunities.

“We wish him all the best. He goes with fond memories of The Jungle and we’ll keep an eye on his future.”

Swap deal works for Castleford Tigers and Hull KR

Jack Broadbent spoke to the Hull KR website after they announced the deal. He stated his ambitions for the move, declaring his aim is to become a first-team regular.

“It’s my aim to get myself into the team and hopefully I can push to get into it. The club is on the rise, they made a final last year and they’re in a semi-final this year again.

“Hull KR is a club heading in the right direction, pushing for the top four and trophies and I’m really looking forward to being a part of that”.

Broadbent is hoping to form a key part of a new-look Hull KR backline. They will re-shape their line-up next season following Ryan Hall’s departure.

As part of the deal to take Broadbent to Hull KR, two players from the Robins move in the opposite direction. Youngster Corey Hall, who can play on the wing or at centre, joins Castleford until the end of 2024.

Louis Senior, who is already on loan at Castleford, has seen his move extended to the end of the season. By joining Castleford, Senior links up with his brother, Innes, who has been a mainstay of Castleford’s side this year. The two reunite after leaving Huddersfield Giants, where they started their careers.