Castleford Tigers secure first deal since arrival of Chris Chester as forward re-signs

Castleford Tigers have re-signed one of their forwards to a new deal, the first deal overseen since Chris Chester’s appointment.

Chester was appointed as Director of Rugby after leaving the same role at Leigh Leopards and he’s got to work quickly with a contract extension handed to second-row forward Alex Mellor.

Mellor was contracted until the end of the 2026 season anyway but the club have now added a year to that in his new deal which secures the second-rower until the end of the 2027 season.

It’s a contract which rewards one of the club’s most consistent players in recent times with Castleford labelling Mellor as someone “emerging as a natural leader on and off the field”.

Mellor was made part of the club’s leadership group by new head coach Danny McGuire ahead of the season after the departure of former co-captain Paul McShane, with Mellor supporting skipper Sam Wood this season.

Castleford Tigers extend star performer’s contract

Castleford Tigers shared the news of Mellor’s new deal with a statement that saw comments from both the player and Chris Chester, who expressed his delight at the deal.

Chester said: “I’m really pleased we’ve put pen to paper with Alex. He’s been our most consistent player in the side this season and has shown extraordinary leadership on and off the field.

“He’s a big game player for this club and I’m looking forward to seeing Alex wear the Black & Amber for the next 3 seasons.”

Mellor also commented: “I’m delighted to sign a new long-term extension at Cas. The club is working hard on and off the field and I’m excited to be a part of the process for the next 3 years. I can’t wait to see where we can take this great club!”

Having sorted Mellor’s deal out, there is still plenty for Chris Chester to sort with Castleford having 10 players off contract at the end of the season.

Castleford Tigers Secure Alex Mellor Until 2027

Castleford Tigers are delighted to announce that second-rower Alex Mellor has signed a contract extension that will keep him at The Jungle until the end of the Betfred Super League 2027 season.

Mellor, who arrived at the club in… pic.twitter.com/KyOSCtGhaa

— Castleford Tigers (@CTRLFC) May 23, 2025