Castleford back Tate facing four months out

Castleford Tigers back Will Tate is out for four months following ankle surgery

Castleford Tigers back Will Tate has suffered a serious ankle injury that is likely to rule him out for four months.

Tate, 23, has had surgery on the ankle and is currently receiving support from the club's medical department.

"Everyone at the club is absolutely gutted for Will. He's a great bloke and a top professional," said Dr Nick Raynor, Tigers' head of medical services.

"After coming back from a long-term injury last year, he had a really strong pre-season and was looking forward to making an impact. It's just really bad luck.

"He is receiving full support from our physiotherapy staff, and I know he'll tackle rehab with total commitment."

Tate's injury has added to Castleford's glut of early season injuries with several senior players missing including back-row Sam Hall, winger Jason Qareqare and centres Louis Senior and Alex Mellor.

Tigers, who lost their opening Super League fixture 19-18 as Hull KR claimed a golden-point win last Friday, host St Helens this Saturday.

Castleford have also confirmed they have signed winger Lee Kershaw from Hull KR on a two-week loan.