Castleford Tigers forward makes immediate switch to former club

Whitehaven have snapped up two Super League youngsters from Castleford Tigers and Salford Red Devils.

This comes at the heart of a number of loan moves lately that have started ahead of the second round of the Betfred Championship.

These moves have preceded the second round of the Championship as the risk of Super League players being cup tied has now gone with every Championship side now eliminated from the Challenge Cup.

Now the second tier will truly begin after one round took place prior to the Challenge Cup Sixth Round which only featured four Championship sides.

The likes of York, Doncaster and Bradford Bulls have all made Super League loan signings from the likes of Leeds Rhinos, Hull FC, Warrington Wolves and Huddersfield Giants.

Now Whitehaven have gotten in on the fun bringing George Hill back to the club from Castleford Tigers alongside Nathan Connell from Salford Red Devils.

Salford youngster follows Castleford Tigers man to Whitehaven

Salford confirmed that Connell would be headed to Whitehaven alongside Castleford Tigers man Hill with the following statement: “We can confirm Nathan Connell has joined Whitehaven Rugby League on a two-week loan.

“The versatile full-back has impressed during his time in the Reserves and recently made the step-up to Paul Rowley’s first-grade squad.

“He was handed squad number 25 and has spent a large period of time around the professional environment during training, and on a match day.

“He will now link-up with Whitehaven for the next fortnight and gain some valuable minutes in the Betfred Championship.

“Haven have started the season with an impressive 18-16 victory over Swinton Lions and will be looking to build on that when they face Barrow Raiders on Friday night.

“Everyone at the club wishes Nathan the best of luck on his loan move.”

Salford themselves have a small squad so it makes sense that the move is only for an initial two week spell.

The Red Devils have made a solid start to Super League despite their small squad pushing Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors as well as defeating St Helens in Round Four.