Hull KR’s Albert Vete makes Super League move for 2023
Castleford Tigers have confirmed the signing of prop forward Albert Vete from Hull KR on a two-year deal.
Vete, 29, made the move to Super League from the NRL ahead of the 2021 campaign with the Robins. He began playing rugby union at a young age but made the switch to league when New Zealand Warriors came calling.
The Tongan international spent four seasons with the Warriors before making the move to Melbourne Storm, enjoying a two-year spell.
He was a part of the Hull KR side that made the play-off semi-finals under Tony Smith in his debut Super League campaign.
Albert Vete on Super League move
Vete said: “I’m pumped and I can’t wait to get started. I’ve already started talking to some of the boys. I’ve done a few training sessions with Mahe (Fonua) and Bureta (Faraimo) trying to keep each other accountable during the off-season.
“It’s a really good crew. It’s a good vibe at the moment. I’m really looking forward to meeting the rest of the boys. I know Radders (Lee Radford) has assembled a strong squad. I can’t wait to meet the staff and hit the ground running in November.
“Personally, I feel Radders is going to help a lot with my performance on the field and off the field. He’s a fellow front rower so he knows what it’s like. He’s seen it and done it all before so I can’t wait to get in amongst it and learn as much as I can off him.
“Having the likes of Mahe, Bureta, and Suaia already at Cas is definitely going to make the transition easier. I also played with George Lawler last year so I know he will be looking out for me as well. The Hull bus will be pumping that’s for sure.”
Head coach Lee Radford added: “He’s something a bit different. He has a different shape to what we’ve got in the forward pack at the moment. His skillset is really high and speaking to players who he’s played with, the feedback on him off the field is fantastic too.
“We’ve got to try and get the best out of him and try to use his strengths in our team. I’m really looking forward to working with him.”
PODCAST: Adam Cuthbertson on time at Leeds, Rhinos’ resurgence & Wayne Bennett’s influence
FOLLOW: Keep up with all the latest on the Love Rugby League mobile app and podcast