Rangi Chase started his career at Australian side Wests Tigers

Castleford have completed the signing of New Zealand half-back Rangi Chase.

The 22-year-old St George-Illawarra player will join up with Castleford at the end of the season after signing a two-year contract.

"He is very quick, has good skills, is a hard worker and a strong defender," said Tigers coach Terry Matterson.

"We intend to be strong in the pivotal positions next season and while we see Rangi playing in the halves, he can also do an excellent job at hooker."

Chase has been capped by New Zealand at junior and A level and was also part of the train-on squad for the tour of England last year.

"Rangi has had a tough upbringing and come through much adversity in his childhood," added Matterson. "It is a credit to him that he has come through that, knuckled down and established himself as a regular in a top-six side in the NRL.

"We feel sure that he will be a big success here at the Jungle. I am really pleased to get Rangi on board."

Meanwhile the Tigers have confirmed to BBC Radio Leeds that Dean Widders is close to also signing for the club.

Negotiations with the 28-year-old Australian are at a very advanced stage and he is expected to be released a year early from his current deal at South Sydney.