Castleford Tigers’ new signing Jimmy Beckett has spoken for the first time at his new club, revealing the ‘sole factor’ behind his move.
Beckett, a former Castleford Tigers academy player, joins from local rivals Featherstone Rovers and adds depth to a forward pack that has seen a number of new recruits already arrive.
The likes of Renouf Atoni, Jack Ashworth and Jordan Lane have all signed with the Tigers for 2026 and Beckett becomes the most recent addition with the 26-year-old linking up with his former Featherstone coach Ryan Carr.
Beckett revealed Carr to be the ‘sole factor’ for why he made the switch to Castleford with Beckett having previously played under the Australian at Featherstone back in 2019.
Speaking in a video shared on Castleford Tigers’ X account, Beckett was asked why he’d made the move and responding bluntly: “Ryan Carr. I had him in 2019 at Fev and he’s the sole factor to why I’ve come back.”
Castleford Tigers signing explains decision to leave Featherstone Rovers
Beckett becomes the 12th signing that Castleford Tigers have made for 2026 and the prop spoke about his excitement to step up into a full-time atmosphere.
He explained: “It’s a good feeling. It’s my first time in a full time set-up so I’m excited to see how I progress. It’s going to bring out the best in me.”
The move also means he leaves Featherstone, whose future is still up in the air with the club currently in administration, something that played a key factor in Beckett’s decision to join the Tigers.
The 26-year-old said: “We’re all toing and froing with Fev and not knowing what is going on there and it got to a point where I couldn’t wait any longer and this deal came along so I jumped at the chance.”
As for playing at Wheldon Road, something he’ll get an opportunity to do this pre-season in games against Oldham and Leeds Rhinos, Beckett said: “It will be a mega feeling. It’s been a while since I played here so it will be nice to be on the right side of the supporters this time.”
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🗣️First words | Jimmy Beckett pic.twitter.com/uTER51TEmJ
— Castleford Tigers (@CTRLFC) January 5, 2026
