Super League side set to lose overseas star

Leeds Rhinos and Wigan Warriors have announced signings for 2024 but clubs like Warrington Wolves, Hull KR, Wakefield Trinity and Castleford Tigers have been working on immediate signings before the August 4th deadline.

The Tigers have been a side who have been particularly busy behind the scenes with Wakefield Trinity heaping pressure on the Tigers especially as they completed major signings like Luke Gale and David Fifita as well as Josh Griffin recently from Hull FC who the Tigers were interested in.

The Tigers did respond with two signings last week before announcing another today.

Castleford Tigers have announced that Papua New Guinea international Liam Horne has joined the club on a one-and-a-half-year contract with an option for a further year in our favour.

The 26-year-old moved from PNG to Australia as a youngster and was picked up by Brisbane side Norths Devils where he rose through the youth ranks.

Horne has played in numerous positions during his time with the Devils, playing hooker, full-back, centre, and loose-forward during his stint with the club. He is known for his trademark electric runs, attacking intent, and an eye for a try when he gets a sniff of the line.

Norths Devils went all the way in 2021 to secure the Intrust Super Cup where he played a crucial role in the club’s success that season. He was called up to the Brisbane Broncos squad for a friendly game ahead of this term and boasts an impressive nine tries in 14 matches this campaign.

Horne received international honours last year, being selected for the Kumuls’ World Cup warm-up contest against Fiji in a 24-14 victory for PNG at Campbelltown Stadium.

All of this means however that the Tigers will have to de register one of their current overseas players with their quota now beyond the allowed seven.

Thus the Tigers will have to de register one of their stars or they will have to depart.

The same situation occurred at Wakefield when David Fifita signed ultimately it led to Jorge Taufua’s exit.

On securing Horne’s signature, Castleford Head Coach Andy Last spoke highly of his latest addition, pinpointing his adaptability as a major strong point.

“Liam is an explosive player with good leg speed and versatility. He is comfortable at 9 or 13 and has played centre and in the spine. His running game and agility make him a really dynamic player which at this time of year will be a real asset for us.

“We are looking forward to welcoming him into our group and improving the competition within our squad on a day-to-day basis.”