Castleford Tigers have made 13 new signings for 2026 and one of them has revealed how the club are ‘chasing perfection’ in their game.
The latest of those signings is Krystian Mapapalangi from Wests Tigers, a fourth outside back after the additions of Darnell McIntosh, Mikaele Ravalawa and Semi Valemei, but there will also be a new man anchoring that back line.
Castleford signed former NRL Grand Final full-back Blake Taaffe from Canterbury Bulldogs with the ex-South Sydney Rabbitohs man bringing plenty of pedigree to the Tigers.
The 26-year-old has made over 40 NRL appearances, including in the 2021 Grand Final, and he arrives with what he’s described as a ‘point to prove’ to himself.
Speaking to club media, Taaffe explained: “Personally, I’m here because I have a lot to prove, not to anyone but myself. I believe my best footy is yet to come, and this is what excites me the most for the next three years I’m wearing this Cas jersey.”
Castleford Tigers signing talks 2026 hopes
Taaffe debuted against St Helens in Matty Lees’ testimonial game on Saturday with Saints running out comfortable winners.
The full-back had previously spoke to club media about his move to England, revealing the fact that he managed to get down to Wheldon Road in late 2025 to get to grips with what sort of atmosphere he can expect in 2026.
He said: “I was fortunate enough to watch a few games at the back end of last year at the jungle and that’s something I’m definitely looking forward to.
“The UK has been good to me and my partner. The weather has been cold but it’s not as bad as everyone says it is! I’m really enjoying my time here already.”
Having explained his personal hopes were executing his point to prove, Taafe talked about the team’s hopes, revealing just how they’re working in pre-season.
“As a team we are striving to be the best,” he admitted.
“We are chasing perfection in every aspect of our game, whether it’s in attack or defence. We have worked so hard this pre-season under Carry and we can’t wait to get stuck into it as a club.”
Check out the latest episode of The Serious About Rugby League Show on our YouTube channel here.
