'Club where I've become a man': Paul McShane set for Castleford Tigers farewell after calling time on professional career

The hooker, who began his career at Leeds Rhinos before a spell with Wakefield Trinity, was a key member of the Castleford team that reached the Super League Grand Final in 2017 after claiming the League Leaders' Shield.

McShane won the Man of Steel award in 2020 and represented England the following year.

The 34-year-old will get the chance to bid farewell to the Wheldon Road faithful when the Tigers host Leigh Leopards in their final home game on Friday.

"I've absolutely loved the past nine years," said McShane, who has previously expressed his desire to move to Australia.

"It’s probably got the best out of me as a rugby player. It’s a club where I’ve become a man.

"I’ve brought my kids into the world at Cas and that’s all my kids do here is play rugby. My kids love it here and are Cas fans through and through.

"I’ve always spoken about how playing in front of the Cas fans at Wheldon Road is something special and that’s been motivating me throughout my career and made me want to do my best every time I stepped out there. Doing it this one last time on Friday, it’ll be a tough one but something I’ll remember."

Castleford director of rugby Danny Wilson added: "Firstly, I just want to wish Paul McShane well in his departure from the Tigers.

"There’s not many players that are able to go out on their terms and I’m pleased Paul is able to do that. He has been a great servant to Cas and rugby league in general – he has hit the heights of international rugby.

"For him to be able to step back now and reassess the next chapter in his life and decide what is right for him and his family, I’m really pleased for Paul and how he is able to make that decision. I’m sure it was a difficult one to make but probably the right one for him."