Castleford Tigers add squad cover with loan signing of Wigan Warriors forward
Just a week into the new season Castleford Tigers have moved to give themselves more cover in the forwards department.
The Wheldon Road club have brought in George Hirst from their opening day opponents, Wigan Warriors, on a one-month loan deal.
The move came only a day after the Tigers lost to 26-16 to Hirst’s parent club with skipper Alex Mellor and off season signing Jordan Lane filling the second row positions where the new man primarily plays.
Cas also have two more new men, Jack Ashworth and Brock Greacen, who play in the back row, but the former has been unable to play so far because he is serving a seven-match ban held over from his time at Hull and the latter featured in the Challenge Cup tie at Doncaster, but was not in the 17 for the Wigan game – prompting speculation about an injury.
Batley-born Hirst can also play at centre, prop and loose-forward, however, so brings some utility value, particularly useful with the Tigers already having Zac Cini, Semi Valemei and Louis Senior on the sidelines.
The 24-year-old joined Wigan in October, 2024, on a two-year deal with a one-year extra option, after helping Oldham to the League One title.
He is seen as a developing player and has yet to make his Super League debut. He had a spell back at Oldham on loan as they reached the Championship play-offs last season.
As a youngster Hirst played community rugby for Dewsbury Moor, Dewsbury Celtic and Almondbury Spartans and represented England Community Lions at under 19 level.
On his move to Castleford, Wigan coach Matt Peet said: “This loan is a great opportunity for George to gain experience and hopefully play some Super League rugby for Castleford.”
Tigers hooker Liam Hood received a Grade A charge for “late contact on passer” from the Wigan game, but will receive no further action.