Castleford Tigers’ signing says he was “thrown in the deep end” against star-studded Featherstone Rovers

Castleford Tigers got their preparations for 2023 underway in the final day of 2022 when they battled local rivals Featherstone Rovers on New Year’s Eve as the likes of Bailey Dawson made their debuts.

The former Hull KR youngster was happy to take on such a star-studded Rovers side with ex-NRL players and top Championships stars,

He said on the Tigers’ website:

“It’s great experience. They had some ex-NRL players out there who have had good careers, and they’re a top Championship team as well so it’s a great test. Thrown in at the deep end a little bit but it was a good challenge and nothing bad can come from that.

“I want to keep getting my head down, and push for the other friendlies as well, but I think it’s looking towards the season now, just pushing on. I’ve had some good game time so just to keep going.”

He was also impressed by his own teammates:

“The young boys that have stepped up from Academy and Reserves, they didn’t look out of place at all. I think it was a tough test and they made themselves accountable definitely, so pat on the back to them. I think the older boys definitely helped too! They really helped us out, with their talk and the way they apply themselves. It was really good.

“Everyone is together, there are no big egos. That’s the environment that Radders and Lasty have built around the club. Daniel Smith today, with Mahe and Bureta, they help us out and make everything feel comfortable so credit to them.”