Castleford Tigers playmaker to ‘start new venture outside of the sport’ following injury nightmare
Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com.
Castleford Tigers have confirmed the early release of Callum McLelland following his horror run with injuries at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle.
The Scotland international departs the club by mutual agreement.
McLelland, 23, began his rugby league journey at the Tigers through the youth ranks and returned to his hometown club ahead of the 2022 campaign from Leeds.
He made 16 appearances for the Rhinos, making his debut in the Challenge Cup following a stint in rugby union.
The half-back has not made an appearance for Castleford since his return, having suffered a patella tendon injury during his time at the Rhinos.
McLelland suffered yet another setback on his road to recovery, and will now start a new venture outside of the sport.
“I’m gutted I haven’t been able to play a game in the two years I’ve had here,” he said.
“I have been doing everything I can to get fit and to get back playing but unfortunately, my injuries haven’t allowed me to.
“The club have been great with me since I arrived, and I can’t thank the performance and medical staff enough, especially Matty (Crowther).
“I’m hoping the lads can finish this season strong and I wish them all the best.”
Castleford boss pays tribute to departing Callum McLelland
Castleford head coach Andy Last paid tribute to the departing youngster, who was off contract at the end of the 2023 season.
“We are really disappointed that we couldn’t get Callum in a position to perform for Castleford,” Last said.
“Despite the best efforts of the performance team and medical team and Callum’s hard work unfortunately we have come to an amicable agreement that it would be in both parties’ best interests to go our separate ways.
“We wish Callum the best of luck in his future career plans.”
He has made 31 appearances in his career, having featured 15 times for Featherstone, and won two caps for Scotland, scoring three tries.
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