Castleford Tigers have officially declared the departures of Mahe Fonua and Bureta Faraimo from the club, effective immediately.
Fonua, who had joined the Tigers before the 2022 season after his stints with Hull FC, Melbourne Storm, and Wests Tigers in Australia, showcased his talent over the course of two campaigns. With 39 appearances for the Fords, Fonua managed to score six times, contributing significantly to the team’s efforts.
Throughout the last Super League season, Fonua, a former Tongan international, proved to be an integral part of the Fords’ lineup, impressively featuring in every fixture during 2022. His versatility on the wing and at centre added immense value to the team’s performances.
As he bids farewell to his time at Wheldon Road, Fonua fondly looks back on the memories and experiences he had during his journey with the Tigers.
“I’m really sorry that my Castleford journey has come to an end, but I have a young family back home that I’ve been away from, and I am looking forward to reuniting with them again.
“I’ve loved my time here at The Jungle and made some great memories and mates I’ve made along the way.”
Faraimo also linked up with Castleford from the Black and Whites having started his career Down Under with Paramatta Eels.
The 33-year-old crossed the whitewash 15 times over 35 appearances for the club with one of the winger’s most memorable moments coming this season, scoring a game-winning double against Leeds Rhinos at The Jungle back in March.
Director of Rugby Operations at the Tigers Danny Wilson has worked with the pair for a number of years at previous clubs as well as the Tigers and wanted to wish both the best for the future.
“First and foremost, they are very good people. I have known both of them for a number of years. As fans, all you can ask is that players work their hardest and I don’t think you can argue that with Mahe or Bureta because they give their all to the cause.
“They have both been at the top of the game and achieved a lot, but both are now ready to move on. I think it’s the right thing for them and the club. Mahe has been doing it tough recently with his family back overseas and he’s been working hard here so the time is right for him to be with his family and explore new ventures.
“We wish them both the best in their future endeavours. They are great people, and we want to wish them and their families well.”
