Castleford Tigers have secured the signature of winger Darnell McIntosh on a two‑year contract, following his release from Leigh Leopards. The deal, announced in mid‑October 2025, sees McIntosh returning to Yorkshire ahead of the 2026 Super League season.
From Leigh to Cas: Why the Move?
McIntosh had been under contract with Leigh until the end of 2026, but the Leopards allowed him an early exit to take up the opportunity at Castleford. The move reunites him with Director of Rugby Chris Chester, who originally brought McIntosh to Leigh in the swap deal that saw Tom Briscoe head to Hull FC.
For McIntosh, the change is motivated by both personal and professional reasons. He cited a need for a new environment—not just for his rugby, but for his family as well. He is clearly keen on the challenge of pushing himself in a new set‑up.
What McIntosh Brings
McIntosh is a proven performer in the Super League. He has come through the Huddersfield Giants’ academy and played at top‑flight level for Huddersfield, Hull FC, and Leigh. Over his career to date he has well over 180 appearances in Super League and Challenge Cup matches, with more than 70 tries scored.
His strengths lie in his pace, finishing ability, versatility in the back line, and especially his “yardage carries” — those powerful runs that help take the sting out of opposition defences and shift momentum. It’s those qualities that Castleford hope will address some of their concerns after a difficult 2025 season.
Fit for Castleford & the Challenges Ahead
Castleford are undergoing something of a backline rebuild, with several recruits already confirmed. McIntosh will join new arrivals such as Mikaele Ravalawa and Semi Valemei in competing for wing and outside‑back positions.
Under Ryan Carr, who will be head coach as of 2026, there is hope that McIntosh’s experience and skillset will help lift Castleford into more competitive performances.
One challenge will be consistency and availability. McIntosh’s 2025 season with Leigh was hampered by injuries; he made only 13 appearances, though still managed five tries. Castleford will be hoping that he can stay fit and deliver regularly. The fans will expect that if he recaptures his best form, he could become an important player for them.
Looking Forward
The signing of McIntosh marks one of the more high‑profile moves of the current off‑season in Super League. It’s a statement by Castleford that they intend to be ambitious in their recruiting and strive for better results in the 2026 campaign.
For McIntosh, it’s a second chance to make an impact under familiar leadership, and in a setting where he believes he can contribute meaningfully. If successful, this move could rejuvenate his trajectory and help Castleford’s hopes of climbing the table.
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