Castleford Tigers have confirmed that star full-back Blake Taaffe will miss the entire 2026 campaign, after picking up an ACL injury.
Taaffe made his Super League debut against Wigan Warriors, but it would soon become a nightmare afternoon for him, as not only did the club suffer defeat, but he picked up the knock during the game.
The former South Sydney Rabbitohs man played for the full 80 minutes, but it was clear to those in the ground that he was struggling to carry on for the final quarter of the game.
The 26-year-old only joined Castleford this off-season, and was one of their star buys. He was set to be a huge part of the club’s transformation, both on and off the field.
Taaffe will now sit out for the remainder of the Super League season, in what is a cruel hand to be dealt so early into his Castleford career.
Castleford Tigers rocked by star’s ACL injury
Commenting on the devastating blow, head coach Ryan Carr said: “I’m absolutely devastated for Blake. He has been a pivotal force behind the culture we are trying to build here at the club.
“To know he finished the game with a torn ACL is a testament to how tough he is and how much care his has for his team mates and his club. His team first personality is what we admire about him and he will be continue to be an integral part of our team off the field.
“His teammates love playing with him, we’re all shattered for him. All we can do, is control what’s next and make sure we get Blake back to his flying best for the start of next season”
Director of Rugby Chris Chester continued the support, saying: “We are heartbroken for Blake. He’s a player who we brought here because we know what he can offer on the field but what he has brought to the squad has been beyond anything we had imagined.
“He is an incredibly popular member of the squad and a pleasure to be around. Now, we have to put the disappointment and sadness to one side and support Blake through his rehab so we can have him back and raring to go for 2027.”
