Whilst it may have been a disappointing 2025 season for Castleford Tigers, they are certainly making huge strides to improve, and they have now announced their third new signing for 2026.

Incoming head coach Ryan Carr will have a new-look squad to work with next year, after director of rugby Chris Chester stuck to his word and has completely changed the squad, after the current playing group have failed to reach expectations.

Brock Greacen, Blake Taaffe and Mikaele Ravalawa have already signed on the dotted line to play at the OneBore Stadium next year, and the Tigers are not done yet, after announcing their fourth new arrival with NRL experience.

North Queensland Cowboys winger, Semi Valemei, is the latest player to join the ranks at Castleford, after penning a two-year contract with the club.

The Fijian international has played seven times for his country, scoring four tries. He also averages a try every other game in the NRL, touching down 23 times in 46 appearances.

The 26-year-old will be linking up with international teammate and friend Ravalawa, as the Tigers look to have a new-look set of outside backs for the upcoming season.

Castleford are making good use of the updated quota rulings, after it was announced earlier this year that clubs could now sign up to 10 overseas players. Valemei will be the Tigers’ ninth quota player heading into the new year.

Jeremiah Simbiken would take the tenth and final spot should he agree new terms with the club, however as it stands he will exit the West Yorkshire side after one season.

Castleford Tigers signing “excited” to make Super League move

Valemei’s first words after confirming the deal proved good news for Tigers fans, after admitting he can’t wait to get started.

He said: “When I spoke with Chris a couple of weeks ago it got me excited, especially when he talked about the club and how it will operate moving forward. All the Cas fans are passionate about their rugby, and one of my mates is playing there too, so I’m also excited to play alongside him.”

Director of rugby Chester also spoke on the move. He said: “I’m really excited to see Semi in a Cas shirt in 2026. Semi possesses both speed and power, and he’s a proven try-scorer at the highest level. He’s a player I know all our fans will be looking forward to watching in Super League, and I’m delighted we’ve been able to get this signing over the line.”