The 2025 season was undoubtedly one to forget for Castleford Tigers. Any early optimism quickly faded following a shock Challenge Cup defeat to the Bulls, and performances deteriorated further as the year progressed. It was not until the final 15 minutes of the season that the Tigers showed any real signs of free-flowing rugby.
In hindsight, Castleford appeared to take several risks ahead of the campaign. Signings from Australia failed to make the desired impact, while the decision to appoint Danny Maguire also did not deliver the hoped-for results.
So, what can supporters expect from the Tigers in 2026?
Despite disappointing on-field performances, the club made several significant off-field moves during 2025. Lifelong supporter Martin Jepson acquired majority control of the club, a decision that led to the appointment of Chris Chester as Director of Rugby. This may yet prove to be Castleford’s most important piece of business.
While Jepson focused on rebuilding and restructuring the club behind the scenes, Chester oversaw a complete overhaul of the on-field operation. This process culminated in the appointment of highly regarded Australian coach Ryan Carr, who is widely tipped to achieve big things in the game and will be tasked with leading Castleford up the Super League table. There has also been considerable change within the playing squad, with proven quality added through the signings of Blake Taaffe, Michaele Ravalawa, and Semi Valemei.
One area where Castleford struggled last season was generating yardage from kick returns. However, with two powerful Fijian wingers boasting extensive NRL experience, this should no longer be a major concern. A completely new spine should also bring greater creativity and attacking spark, potentially restoring the attractive, high-tempo rugby that Castleford were once known for.
While the club appears to be moving in the right direction, a top-six finish may still be just out of reach in 2026. The Tigers should remain competitive and firmly in the mix, but they may still be short of an established centre and a dominant prop forward to truly re-establish themselves among the league’s elite.
Nevertheless, with positive changes taking place both on and off the field, there is a renewed sense of optimism at the Jungle. The doom and gloom of recent seasons now feels firmly in the past.
Player to Watch: Blake Taaffe
Blake Taaffe could prove to be a shrewd acquisition for Castleford. A versatile and intelligent player, he was unfortunate to see his progress disrupted by injury during his time with the Bulldogs, as he otherwise looked capable of becoming a regular NRL starter.
Quick, agile, and possessing an excellent rugby league brain, Taaffe has the potential to thrive. If he can build strong partnerships with Daejarn Asi and Tom Weaver, the Tigers’ attacking ceiling could be very high.
Top Try Scorer: Semi Valeme
During Castleford’s peak a decade ago, it often seemed that anyone deployed on the left wing could score freely. The same may well be true for Semi Valemei. An established NRL and international winger, his combination of pace and power should see him among the leading try scorers at the Jungle.
Predicted Finish: 9th
Castleford are one of several teams capable of finishing anywhere between fifth and ninth this season. However, with new combinations still bedding in and one or two key signings potentially missing, the Tigers may narrowly miss out on the play-offs. That said, a surprise late push should not be ruled out.
Players In:
Brock Greacen (Newcastle Knights), Blake Taaffe (Canterbury Bulldogs), Mikaele Rivalawa (St George Illawarra Dragons), Semi Valemei (North Queensland Cowboys), Jordan Lane (Hull FC), Jack Ashworth (Hull FC), Renouf Atoni (Wakefield), Liam Hood (Wakefield), Darnell McIntosh (Leigh), Tom Weaver (Gold Coast Titans), Aiden Doolan (Barrow Raiders)
Players Out:
George Griffin (Sheffield Eagles), Josh Simm (Catalans), Jeremiah Simbiken (London Broncos), Sam Wood (York), Innes Senior (Leigh), Muizz Mustapha (Doncaster), Josh Hodson (Sheffield Eagles), Will Tate (Wakefield), Liam Horne (Leigh), Tex Hoy (TBC), Andy Djeukessi (Newcastle Thunder)
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