Chase to stay at Castleford

Rangi Chase has ended speculation over his future by committing to play for Castleford next season, the Stobart Super League club have confirmed.

It seemed Chase was on his way out of the PROBIZ Coliseum when the Tigers last week confirmed he had entered into talks with his old Australian club St George Illawarra.

But a potential deal was not finalised, leading to Chase, who was recently ruled out of England's autumn internationals after picking up a groin injury on their training camp in South Africa, agreeing to remain with Castleford for the 2013 season.

In a statement, Tigers chief executive Steve Ferres said: "We are delighted that the situation has been resolved and we are looking forward to seeing him regain the form that led to him being crowned Man of Steel in 2011.

"Having spoken to Rangi he is happy to be staying at the club and is meeting with the Castleford physio today to assess his groin injury so he can be ready for the pre-season friendlies in January."

The 26-year-old still has three years left on his contract after signing a new deal only 12 months ago but there had been rumours he would leave the Yorkshire club when he was suspended by Castleford in June for breaching club rules on drinking alcohol before a match.

A proposed switch to Hull fell through due to visa difficulties but New Zealand-born Chase, who caused a stir 12 months ago when he switched his allegiance to England, revealed only last week a move away from Castleford would be the likely option.

But the Tigers were hoping to resolve the matter before the weekend and after a deal with St George was not concluded, Castleford announced it was "mutually agreed" that Chase would remain at the club.