The Wests Tigers have received a major boost to their squad next season, signing former NRL premiership winner Jason Cayless for two years in a move that will have coach Tim Sheens feeling very optimistic about his side’s title aspirations in 2010.
Returning to Australia after playing four seasons in the English Super League with St Helens, Cayless’ induction to the Tigers line-up will provide the team with some much needed experience and grunt upfront, especially in big matches.
Before his stint with St Helens, Cayless made his NRL debut in 2000 for the Parramatta Eels, playing alongside his brother Nathan.
Despite showing promise wearing the blue and gold, Cayless signed with the Sydney Roosters at the beginning of the 2002 NRL season.
Playing under the tutelage of current Sharks coach Ricky Stuart, Cayless would became one of the prime forwards in the NRL with the Roosters, helping the Bondi-Junction club win their 12th premiership in just his first year with the tri-colours.
The Kiwi test forward ended up becoming an integral part of a Roosters team that would go on to make two more successive NRL Grand Final appearances, whilst also winning a World Club challenge title in 2003 and the Minor Premiership a year later.
After a successful four year stint at the Roosters, Cayless signed with St Helens in 2006 and was once again able to win silverware in just his first year with the club, attaining the English Super League title and the Challenge Cup.
Having been a prominent figure at both the Roosters and St Helens, Cayless will be looking to help lead the Tigers to their first finals series since winning the NRL premiership in 2005.
The 29 year old prop will certainly add muscle to what is becoming a formidable Tigers forward pack for next season.
Cayless will now feature alongside big forwards such as Bryce Gibbs, Keith Galloway, Todd Payten, Chris Heighington and England Test player Gareth Ellis.
Despite nearing the twilight of his career, Cayless still has what it takes to adapt to the rigors of NRL football.
If Tigers coach Tim Sheens can get the best out of Cayless and company, it will prove to be the key in getting a Tigers machine, controlled by stars Benji Marshall and Robbie Farah, to fire in next seasons finals after a painful four year absence.
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