Castleford star Shenton signs for St Helens

St Helens have confirmed his signing on a three-year contract but the talented three-quarter - who turned down a deal to join Bradford to stay at The Jungle three years ago - admitted making the decision did not come easy.

"Although it's a real wrench for me to leave Castleford, I feel that St Helens present a perfect opportunity for me to develop my rugby league career at the highest level," he said, having progressed through the Tigers' Academy to earn a reputation as one of Super League's finest players.

"They have a long and great record of success and play a brand of rugby that will suit me. It's a very exciting time to be joining the club and I'm really looking forward to the challenge."

Shenton, 24, made his 150th appearance for Castleford at Hull KR on Sunday but rejected a new deal there and becomes the first signing for new Saints coach Royce Simmons.

"Michael is one of the best young rugby league talents in England," said St Helens chairman Eamonn McManus.

"Although already an established international, we feel that his best years very much lie ahead of him and that he will flourish at St Helens.

"He has size and speed and will complement our back line very well."

Meanwhile, Castleford have given a two-year contract to second-row Billy Harris, 18, a former Stanley Rangers junior who is the latest graduate pf the Tigers' academy ranks.