Mathers opts for Castleford

Warrington full-back Richie Mathers has signed for Castleford on a three-year deal.

Mathers, 26, has opted to leave the Halliwell Jones Stadium at the end of the season after the Wolves made a move for Huddersfield full-back Brett Hodgson.

The former East Leeds junior has entertained a number of offers, but has plumped to join up with the Tigers.

Boss Terry Matterson said: “I’m extremely pleased to have been able to get Richard on board, he is a quality player with plenty of experience, a good communicator and a real professional.”

Mathers began his Super League career with Leeds before joining then-new NRL franchise Gold Coast Titans for the 2007 season, before returning to the UK first with Wigan and then Warrington.

He said: “Joining Cas is a good move for me and a great opportunity. I could have stayed with Warrington but Tony Smith has been honest with me and with Brett Hodgson signing he couldn’t guarantee me a position.

“I had a number of firm options on the table from both Super League clubs and rugby union but this seemed a good opportunity.”