Castleford Tigers v Leeds Rhinos: Star stand-off Chase dropped for derby following '˜internal investigation' into an off-the-pitch incident

FORMER MAN of Steel Rangi Chase has been left out of Castleford Tigers' squad to face Leeds Rhinos at the Jungle on Thursday.
Dropped - Rangi Chase.Dropped - Rangi Chase.
Dropped - Rangi Chase.

Tigers have confirmed Chase, who rejoined the club midway through last season and has played in both their Super League games so far this year, is “not available” for Thursday.

He is understood to have been dropped due to allegations about his behaviour off the pitch.

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In a statement, Tigers chief executive Steve Gill said the stand-off has been part of an “investigation that has been dealt with internally by the club”.

Rangi Chase in recent action against former club Leigh Centurions.Rangi Chase in recent action against former club Leigh Centurions.
Rangi Chase in recent action against former club Leigh Centurions.

Gill added: “Neither Rangi Chase nor the Castleford Tigers will make any further comment on this issue.”

Chase starred for Tigers from 2009-13 and was voted Super League’s top player in 2011.

The New Zealand-born former England international had unhappy spells at Salford Red Devils and Leigh Centurions, but returned to Tigers on a short-term deal last July and signed a contract for 2017 two months later.

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Meanwhile, Paul McShane is set to return for Tigers on Thursday after completing a one-match ban and fellow former Leeds forward Alex Foster is in contention to make his debut.

Tigers head coach Daryl Powell.Tigers head coach Daryl Powell.
Tigers head coach Daryl Powell.

Will Maher is also included in Castleford’s squad after playing on dual-registration for Batley Bulldogs last weekend.

Tigers coach Daryl Powell said: “Friday night’s win at Warrington was a big win for us, to put a marker down like we did I thought was an outstanding team performance.”

Powell added: “Leeds have won two out of three and they have defended pretty well.

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“They haven’t conceded a lot of points and they are basing a lot of what they are doing on a really tough defensive mindset.

Rangi Chase in recent action against former club Leigh Centurions.Rangi Chase in recent action against former club Leigh Centurions.
Rangi Chase in recent action against former club Leigh Centurions.

“They have got good players everywhere so you know they are a threat and there is always a big game in Leeds.

“For us we need to not get too carried away with all the pats on the back we are receiving. We can’t get dragged down by that, it’s important we are focused and make sure that our game is really good.”