Castleford Tigers chase Papua New Guinea forward after title-winning campaign

Castleford Tigers have set their sights on Papua New Guinea international Jeremiah Simbiken. Rugby League Live understands the Tigers are in discussions with the back-rower and hope to secure a deal for the forward heading into the 2025 season.

The Tigers have been chasing a back-rower to bolster their squad for some time and after considering a number of targets, Simbiken has emerged as their main priority, and they are hopeful of securing him to become the first signing since the appointment of Danny McGuire.

The 24-year-old has yet to play in the NRL but has amassed plenty of experience in the Queensland Cup and is closing in on 100 competition appearances. This year proved to be his best yet after playing for Norths Devils as they won the competition. Simbiken scored in their Grand Final victory over Newtown Jets and ended the season with eleven tries in 23 games.

READ MORE: Huddersfield Giants land Fiji international as NRL centre completes recruitment

READ MORE: Wakefield Trinity chase Bradford Bulls star deemed one of Championship's best

Simbiken boasts an impressive try-scoring record in the competition, averaging almost a score every other game with a total of 42 in 90 appearances.

Internationally, he has made three appearances for Papua New Guinea, which included an outing in their Pacific Championships game against New Zealand earlier this month.

Simbiken is under contract with Dolphins next year, however, he is thought to be keen on a move to Super League and with a strong Papua New Guinea contingent already at the Tigers, he could become the latest Kumuls player to join the club following the arrival of hooker Judah Rimbu.

Click here - Get the latest news on our Rugby League Live WhatsApp channel