Castleford Tigers news: second NRL star signs on from St George-Illawarra Dragons for 2027
Castleford Tigers have announced the signing of Samoan outside-back Mat Feagai from NRL club St George Illawarra Dragons.
Feagai is Tigers’ second recruit for 2027 from St George, following hooker Damien Cook. He has spent six seasons in the NRL, making 74 appearances and scoring 27 tries and represented Samoa at the 2022 World Cup.
The 25 year old, who has penned a three-year deal, said: “It’s really exciting. I’ve had good chats with Chris [Chester, Tigers’ director of rugby] and [coach] Ryan Carr and they sold me on it pretty early. I can't wait to get over there and play for Castleford. There’s definitely something building into the future and I’m glad to be a part of it."
Carr was an assistant-coach at St George before joining Tigers in pre-season. He enthused: “Matt is a really talented player and we’re excited about what he can bring to the group.
“We believe we can help unlock the best in him and just as importantly, he’s a really good person who’ll fit into our culture well. We’re stoked to have him on board for 2027 and beyond.”
A “delighted” Chester added: “Mat is playing some really good rugby at present in the NRL and is exactly the type of player whose style suits the Super League game. He’s a big, athletic centre with great footwork and a good understanding of the game.
“Mat was excited about the vision of the club and we are extremely delighted to get a deal done so quickly. I’d also like to put on record my thanks to Martin [Jepson, club owner] and the board of directors at our great club for the continued support and investment in the playing squad for 2027. Without this, signings of this quality would not be able to happen.”