Castleford Tigers have made some exciting signings to add further quality to their 2023 squad.
But how will they line up for the majority of the new season as they look to return to the play-offs in the new season.
Fullback: Niall Evalds
One of the best fullbacks in Super League when fit, Castleford Tigers’ success in 2023 could be defined by whether he can stay fit in 2023 especially as he is no stranger to a try.
Wingers: Bureta Faraimo and Greg Eden
Now that Derrell Olpherts has moved to pastures new in 2023 joining Leeds Rhinos, you would be forgiven for thinking the Tigers could have limited options on the wings. But they have the likes of Mahe Fonua, Jason Qareqare and new signing Jack Broadbent could all play there. But it could be the powerful Faraimo and try scoring machine Eden who start on the wings.
Centres: Jake Mamo and Mahe Fonua
This is one of Castleford’s strongest positions. They have these two, Broadbent and Jordan Turner all vying for these spots. Mamo is perhaps the front runner but who will join him is tough to determine. Radford’s love of power may see him pick Fonua.
Halfbacks: Jacob Miller and Gareth Widdop
Another position with great depth, though Callum McLelland and Jacob Hookem are unlikely to start the season as first choice in the position. So, it will come down to their new signings Miller and Widdop from Wakefield Trinity and Warrington Wolves and Danny Richardson.
Props: Daniel Smith and George Griffin
Two mobile, modern props. They have grown into their own in recent seasons. Daniel Smith even captained the Tigers against Featherstone Rovers on New Year’s Eve.
Hooker: Paul McShane
One of the few positions nailed on, skipper and former Man of Steel Paul McShane will start at nine. He will have something to prove after missing the World Cup.
Second-Rowers: Kenny Edwards and Alex Mellor
At the end of last season, these two settled into the backrow together and between them offer everything you’d want a modern backrow to have. One of the best in Super League.
Loose-Forward: Joe Westerman
One of the great ball playing loose-forwards in Super League. He also has tremendous work rate too.
Substitutes: Albert Vete, Suaia Matagi, Liam Watts and Jack Broadbent
Lee Radford was no stranger to including a centre on the bench last season and he could do the same with Broadbent in 2023 especially with Broadbent so versatile and threatening. Alongside him could be major size in new signing from Hull KR Albert Vete, Suaia Matagi and Liam Watts. They would provide great impact.