Tigers pounce to sign Hudson

3:50pm Friday 5th September 2008

Castleford have signed their former captain Ryan Hudson from Huddersfield on a four-year deal.

The 28-year-old hooker or loose forward initially joined the Tigers from Wakefield in 2002 and made 86 appearances before leaving for Bradford when Castleford were relegated four years ago.

"I'm relishing coming back at Cas and looking for a new challenge with the club," said Hudson, who will almost certainly end his career with the Tigers. "The club has top-six ambitions and they are recruiting well with some very good players coming on board."

He added: "And there are already some top players at the club and some great youngsters, I will be looking to bring some additional leadership.

"I hope that I can play my part in helping us to reach the heights that the club have achieved in the past."

The capture of Hudson comes 24 hours after Castleford signed his Huddersfield team-mate Stuart Jones and they will join overseas recruits Rangi Chase, Dean Widders and Sione Faumuina at The Jungle in 2009.

Castleford coach Terry Matterson said: "I understand Ryan was a really popular guy with the fans at The Jungle and, having seen him this year for Huddersfield, I can see why.

"His form this season puts him in the top bracket of hookers in Super League.

"He is a good leader, a very committed player who gives his all for the team cause and a really hard worker with plenty of skill, which will be great attributes to bring to the team.

"We see Ryan as a key signing in building the club to the highest level. I'm looking forward to him linking up with us and am sure he will contribute greatly to the squad both on and off the field."

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