Castleford Tigers have it all to do in Super League 2025.
- Super League Raw
- Feb 11
- 4 min read
The announcement that Craig Lingard would not be leading the Tigers into the 2025 season took everyone in the Super League by surprise. This strategic decision was made by prospective club owner Martin Jepson, who has appointed Danny McGuire to assume the role of head coach for the first time. While Castleford fans had reason for optimism off the field, given the plans for a new stadium and potential investments, these hopes have been dampened. The new stadium project is once again delayed, with no immediate prospects for ground breaking. Furthermore, Martin Jepson has extended the deadline for his takeover, citing the need for a "deeper investigation" due to complications identified during the due diligence process.
Upon initial observation, many analysts expressed concerns regarding the depth of Danny McGuire's squad, a sentiment echoed by McGuire himself following the team's defeat to Bradford Bulls in the Challenge Cup over the weekend. It seems that his concerns may have been addressed with today’s loan acquisition of Ben Davies from St Helens. After struggling to secure a regular position during his six years with the Saints, this transfer appears advantageous for all parties involved. Davies has made 40 appearances for St Helens and has scored 11 tries at the top level. He will serve as a valuable option at stand-off during the early rounds in the absence of Rowan Milnes or can alternatively play in his customary centre position.
The recent departures of Jacob Miller and Danny Richardson have significantly diminished Castleford's options in the halves. Super League Raw has noted the potential displayed by young Jenson Windley towards the end of last season and expressed surprise at his omission from the Cup line up, especially with Tex Hoy being favoured in the number six position. However, the return of Josh Simm, following an injury-riddled 2024 season, provides a substantial boost for Castleford, particularly given concerns regarding the short-term fitness of Jason Qareqare.
Another unexpected development on Saturday was Sam Wood's shift to the right centre position, especially considering his previous partnership on the left with Innes Senior, which was truly exceptional. Speaking of Senior, it is important to recall his considerable potency as a player:
Let's take a look at the new additions for 2025, starting with West Tigers centre Zac Cini who arrives on a two year contract. The 24 year old has only appeared 4 times in the NRL scoring one try on debut versus St George in a 16 - 8 win for the Tigers. Cini is better known representing Paramatta Eels in the Queensland cup on 63 occassion with an impressive 4 point return of 30. Here is his highlight reel from last season:
One area of the team that appears to be well-equipped is the hooker position. Cain Robb and Liam Horne demonstrated significant potential in 2024; however, the Castleford Tigers have opted to acquire a third hooker, Judah Rimbu, from Papua New Guinea. Rimbu, an international player and representative for the President's PM XIII Annual, has also competed in the Queensland Cup, making 69 appearances and scoring 21 tries. At 23 years old, he stands at 5 feet 8 inches and weighs 13 stone 3 pounds. Comparisons have been drawn between Rimbu and Edwin Ipape, and the Tigers' supporters will be hopeful that this comparison holds true.
One of the notable surprises of 2024 was Ellie El-Zakem's offensive performances for the Tigers. Due to homesickness, Ellie left at the end of the season, resulting in the recruitment of PNG international Jeremiah Simbiken as his replacement. Simbiken made an try scoring for the Tigers against the Bulls on Saturday. With 90 appearances in the Queensland Cup, he has previously represented Redcliffe, Central Queensland, and Norths.
Kieran Hudson has joined the team from Leeds Rhinos, but the signing that has truly excited Tigers fans is Daejarn Asi, who has secured a two-year contract from the Parramatta Eels. At just 24 years old, Asi boasts an impressive record of 42 appearances in the NRL, having also played for the North Queensland Cowboys and the New Zealand Warriors. His success in the challenging halfback position speaks volumes about his talent. With his agility, quickness, and keen passing ability, Asi has the potential to make a significant impact for the Tigers in 2025.
During 'Super League Raw Weekly' the panel assessed the Giants squad ahead of the new season, watch their debate here:
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Shocking in the Middles against Bradford and so Lacklustre with no line speed or desire to win. It was so poor a performance it has prompted a written apology by captain Sam Wood to the fans - a first I think. Cas fans can - and do - forgive a lot but lack of effort for the badge isn’t one of them. It’s going to be a long season again.
Think the title sums it up really ,we ( the Tigers ) will have it all to do ,really doesn't help starting the season without a starting half back ,hopefully Ben Davies can do a job,most Tiger fans recognise we are very light in the prop department but where do we get them from? Why would any quality prop want to come to Cas when it's obvious we will probably struggle again this year .I really hope I'm wrong and we surprise a few 🤞🤞
One thing that no matter how bad it gets I'll always be a Tiger 🐅🐅🐅🐅