The Bulls have completed their off-season manoeuvrings by signing Cook Islands prop Adam Watene from promoted Castleford Tigers.

The 27-year old made 28 appearances for the Tigers last season and was in the side that clinched promotion to Super League by winning the National League One Grand Final against Whitehaven.

The ball-playing front-rower has joined the club on a one-year deal in what looks to be a stop-gap measure ahead of the expected elevation of promising youngsters Anthony Tonks and Matt James to first-team level.

Tonks will likely compete with Watene for the fourth propping spot while 18-year old James, the club's top prospect, is probably still another year away from stepping up to Super League.

Watene, who signed for Castleford from Queensland Cup side Burleigh Bears, has previously been on the books of NRL clubs Canterbury Bulldogs and Gold Coast Chargers. He represented Cook Islands in the 2000 World Cup and last year captained his country to victory in the Pacific rim tournament.

"I am delighted to be joining the Bulls," said Watene.

"It is a great opportunity for me at this stage of my career to play at a big club and I am looking forward to making a big impression.

"It's a dream move for me to get a deal with the champions. Once I knew they were interested I took the opportunity with both hands. I am looking forward to it immensely."

Bulls coach Brian Noble said: "We have been very impressed with Adam this season and we feel he will improve in our environment.

"He is big, strong and athletic with very good feet and he will be a great addition to our squad for next season."

Former Bulls target Ben Fisher - Halifax's Australian hooker who was linked with a move to Odsal before the Bulls signed Ian Henderson - has become the eighth close-season signing for National League One club Hull Kingston Rovers.