What Castleford Tigers still need to recruit ahead of 2025

Castleford Tigers have started their recruitment drive well, signing three players from Down Under.

The first confirmed signing, Zac Cini, plugs a gaping hole in their side, as in the absence of Sam Wood, a number of players such as Luke Hooley and Alex Mellor had to fill in at centre – but now, someone more natural can play there.

He also brings height, something that they have struggled without wide of late, and can also play at full-back, showing that the days of woe in the number-one position are well and truly over for now.

Daejarn Asi, who also played with Parramatta Eels last year, is a nailed-on starter in the halves, replacing Jacob Miller – and he brings a good running and kicking ability,

Meanwhile, their latest confirmed signing is hooker Judah Rimbu, who offers something new from the hooker position after a season of the quality of Liam Horne and Cain Robb, alongside Paul McShane.

What Castleford Tigers still need to recruit ahead of 2025

You could certainly argue that a prop is needed for next year.

It has been a position that has plagued the side in 2024, and with no players signed for next year there, it seems likely that the side’s final overseas quota spot would be used here.

However, this need has been alleviated slightly by the signing of Judah Rimbu, due to the knock-on effect it could have of moving Liam Horne to 13 and therefore moving Joe Westerman to the props.

In addition, Sylvester Namo’s signs of quality show that if he can play at that level more consistently, he can be a great option in the front row.

Nixon Putt and Elie El-Zakhem’s departures mean the side also probably needs another back-rower to firm up the pack. As it stands, it looks like George Lawler may take up a second-row position, although Westerman could probably also provide an option.

However, a solid, natural signing here would make a world of difference for Danny McGuire’s side.

In the backs, Castleford Tigers look in good shape, especially thanks to the emergence of players such as Jenson Windley and Fletcher Rooney.