Super League’s Castleford Tiger has officially announced the signing of Papua New Guinea (PNG) Kumul and Central Queensland Capras Nixon Putt. Putt had come out early this year to announce the signing but it was confirmed by the club yesterday (29th September).
Putt’s two-year (2024-25) deal with Castleford has been a dream come true for him as he admits to always wanting to play for the National Rugby League (NRL) or the Super League, after spending seven years in the Queensland (QLD) Hostplus Cup. During those years, he started playing with the SP Hunters before moving to the North Devils and later spent the last three years with the Capras. Putt had represented PNG Kumuls at last year’s delayed World Cup in which he played all four games, including the defeat to England.
The 27-year-old from Mt Hagen admitted he can't wait to join the Super League when he spoke to Castleford’s website.
“I’m really excited because it’s like my dream come true. I’ve been playing in the Hostplus Cup and the Intrust Super Cup for the past 7 years, but I have not had any call-ups for NRL pre-season training and trials.
“I’ve been playing a lot of test matches for Papua New Guinea and the last time I represented them in the Rugby League World Cup, it was in England. When we played against Wales, I got the player of the match, played 60 minutes, and scored 2 tries.”
“I’m looking forward to facing a new challenge and meeting new people. It’s going to be good to go and see a different side of the world, it’s good for my partner and my baby to come over too, it’ll be a big family move and we can’t wait to come over.
“I’m really keen to introduce myself to the Cas fans. I’ll play my footy, and my footy will tell the fans how I play, and get their support,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Nixon isn’t the only PNG player to move to the Super League, Sylvester Namo had also signed a one-year deal with the Castleford Tigers while Rodrick Tai signed a similar deal with Warrington Wolves, they will all start next year.
Photo Credit: Kumul Corner
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