Rugby League News

Two-time Challenge Cup winner Mahe Fonua joins new club following release from Castleford Tigers

by
Sam Cook
July 31, 2023

There’s recently been a frenzy of signings in Super League with the August 4th deadline approaching and that’s seen Tyler Dupree join Wigan Warriors, Moses Mbye link up with St Helens whilst Castleford Tigers have recruited three overseas players from down under.

Andy Last’s men are in a real relegation dog fight, particularly after the weekend’s results, and as such they’ve looked to bolster their squad with international talent.

Castleford went on a signing spree last week recruiting Lebanese World Cup star Charbel Tasipale with the former Newtown Jets man able to play across the second row or in the centres.

They also signed PNG hooker Liam Horne who was another to feature at the 2021 World Cup whilst Greek international forward Billy Tsikrikas has also landed at the Jungle to provide some beef up front.

Clearly those three signings would take the Tigers over their overseas player quote and as such they announced the release of backs Buretta Faraimo and Mahe Fonua, both of whom has previously played for Hull FC.

Fonua who twice won the Challenge Cup with Hull FC during his time in England released a statement as part of the club’s announcement.

“I’m really sorry that my Castleford journey has come to an end but I have a young family back home that I’ve been away from and I am looking forward to reuniting with them again,” he stated.

“I’ve loved my time here at The Jungle and made some great memories and mates along the way.”

It was also confirmed by Director of Rugby, Danny Wilson, that Fonua’s desire to be back home had made the release happen more easily.

“Mahe has been doing it tough recently with his family back overseas and he’s been working hard here so the time is right for him to be with his family and explore new ventures.

“We wish them both the best in their future endeavours.”

It’s now been confirmed that Fonua has a landing spot for 2024 with Mackay Cutters who play in the Queensland Cup announcing his signing.

Not only is Fonua joining them for the 2024 season but he’s also penned a deal for 2025 showing that the 30-year-old still has plenty more miles on the clock.

The Cutters announced the signing via their Facebook page.

The statement reads: “The Mackay Cutters are delighted to announce the signing of marquee player Mahe Fonua for seasons 2024 & 2025

“Mahe is a powerful outside back who made his debut with the Melbourne Storm in 2012. His impressive career includes a total of 71 NRL games and 131 Super League games as well as representing Tonga in 6 Internationals. His experience and leadership will be invaluable to our young squad as we continue to build for the future.

“We are looking forward to welcoming Mahe and his family to Mackay later this year to begin his journey with the Cutters!”