LEIGH LEOPARDS have signed Jack Ashworth from Castleford Tigers on a deal until the end of the 2028 season.
Ashworth moves with immediate effect while fellow forward Lazarus Vaalepu has gone in the other direction on loan for the remainder of the year.
The 31-year-old Ashworth has over 100 Super League appearances to his name, having previously represented St Helens, Huddersfield Giants, Hull FC and Castleford Tigers.
He was part of the Saints side that won the Grand Final in 2019, the same year he represented England Knights.
But Ashworth has rarely put together a consistent season, only twice playing more than 15 times for one club in a campaign – that 2019 season, and last year with Hull.
After joining Castleford ahead of this season, he was limited to eleven appearances, including a period of over two months without a game before being recalled to the side in July.
His return to Leigh – he previously had loan spells in 2019 and 2021, making a combined nine appearances – gives Adrian Lam’s side extra depth in the pack.
Aaron Pene was recently released while new signing Vaalepu had been spending time on loan with Oldham to build his fitness.
Leigh’s director of rugby Andrew Henderson said: “Jack is a tough, experienced player who knows what it takes at Super League level. He brings physicality, and a real team-first mentality.
“When we were made aware of Jack’s availability we felt now was the right time to bring him in. He is exactly the type of competitor who adds versatility, strengthening our middle unit and providing cover on an edge for the run-in this year and beyond.
“We’re pleased to add him to the Leopards pack, strengthening our depth immediately and providing strong competition for places. We welcome Jack to our club and we look forward to seeing what he will bring to the group.”
Vaalepu signed a short-term deal in June to join from Melbourne Storm and played four successive games, but last appeared for the Leopards in the derby defeat to Wigan Warriors at the end of July.
He featured for Oldham in their most recent two Championship games, including their defeat of previously unbeaten leaders London Broncos.
Henderson said: “The opportunity to join Castleford on loan now gives him the chance to build his minutes, confidence and momentum at Super League level.
“It’s a good fit for all parties, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on his progress.”