Castleford Tigers have confirmed the signing of former Australia and New South Wales hooker Damien Cook on a contract beginning next season.

Cook has signed a two-year deal and will join Tigers from St George-Illawarra Dragons, where he played under current Castleford coach Ryan Carr. The 34-year-old, who was the 2018 NRL Dally M hooker of the year, has played in four Tests for Australia as well as 17 State of Origin matches.

His 248-game NRL career began with St George in 2013 and he also featured for Canterbury Bulldogs and South Sydney Rabbitohs, where he made more than 200 appearances, before returning to the Dragons last year. Carr hailed him as “a terrific signing for our club”.

St George-Illawarra Dragons' former Test and State of Origin hooker Damien Cook will join Castleford Tigers next season. Picture by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images.

He said: “He’s a great person, a proven leader and an outstanding rugby league player who brings a wealth of experience and a real competitive edge. His professionalism and desire for success fit perfectly with what we’re building here at Castleford. Damien will be a big part of our future and I know he’s super excited to be involved.”

Tigers director of rugby Chris Chester added: “Damien is a hugely significant signing for the club in 2027. He is a player that has achieved everything in the game in Australia, having played State of Origin and represented his country and I’m delighted he has chosen to play for the Castleford Tigers in 2027.

“He leads with his actions on the field, but he is also a great leader off it too - and when we found out he was available we acted very quickly on getting the deal done. Ryan has a great relationship with the player and his family, which was a big pull for him and I personally can’t wait to see Damien in the Castleford colours in 2027.”

Cook’s signing is the second long-term boost for Tigers this week after star centre Krystian Mapapalangi extended his contract until the end of 2029.