Former Warrington Wolves and Leeds Rhinos star Blake Austin shocked the world when it was announced that he would be joining Castleford Tigers for the rest of the season.
He joined the survival chasing Tigers on a deal until the end of the year but his future beyond the 2023 season remained a mystery.
There was talk of interest from Featherstone Rovers but now it would appear that he has signed a deal with Castleford Tigers based off the fact Kenny Edwards commented on a recent post: “Congratulations on signing the deal.”
However, this is no guarantee given he may have just been teasing but it would seem that Cas have an interest.
Nathan made his debut against Lock Lane in 2007 in the Challenge Cup and has now reached 300 appearances for the Fords after hitting the milestone during last week’s home win over Hull FC.
During his time at The Jungle, Massey has been a huge presence in and around the squad and has been a figure that the younger members look up to.
Mass has been at the forefront of the Tigers’ successes, featuring in both Challenge Cup Final appearances in 2014 and 2021, lifting the League Leaders’ Shield in 2017, and making it to Old Trafford for the Grand Final.
The one club man will be looking to finish the season with Cas on a high before moving on to pastures new.
In 2023 he was honoured with a testimonial year by the RFL and welcomed the Cas Army down to Wheldon Road for a game dedicated to him in the run-up to this campaign. That day, the Tigers ran out 48-10 winners over the Huddersfield Giants; A game in which Massey himself slotted a goal through the posts from the tee.
On the news that he will be leaving the Tigers at the end of the campaign, Mass sat down with castlefordtigers.com to reflect on his time with the Fords.
“It’s emotional to be leaving but it’s probably the right time for me and the club to go a different way. I’ve loved every single minute at this club, and I am proud to have represented the jersey as I have done. I first started at fifteen as a chubby, long-haired kid and I am leaving as a 34-year-old, so I’ve got fond memories here. I’ve been proud to represent this club for a long time.”
The forward began life in the Fords’ Academy ranks as a teenager alongside a number of players who also eventually broke into Cas’ senior squad. Massey looked back on his time in the youth system and his first team debut, by saying:
“Westy and Wattsy are still exactly the same! I’ve had the privilege of growing up with some of the boys I’ve played with through the academy and that’s been great. I’ve made some mates for life here and I’ve loved every minute. There were a few of us who made their debut in that game because Wattsy did as well, and it was a big occasion for the town.
“The stands down here were packed and it was a blend of first team and academy boys coming through who played.”
