St Helens have finally confirmed the signing of Canberra Raiders hooker Tom Starling, with the Australian inking a 3-year deal at the BrewDog Stadium.

It is a deal that has been in the public eye for weeks, with reports of a move first emerging down under back in September. Since then, Raiders boss Ricky Stuart has given Starling the ‘green light’ to proceed with negotiations with the Saints.

Last week, Starling sent an ‘over and out’ farewell message to the Canberra fans, all but confirming his move to the Red Vee. Now, the club have confirmed his arrival as he becomes the fourth player to join Kevin Walters’ squad ahead of 2027.

The 28-year-old joins Christian Tuilpulotu (St George Illawarra), Solomona Faataape (Catalans Dragons) and Sean O’Sullivan (Canterbury Bulldogs) in joining the side, but his arrival gives the side a quota headache, with his signature now meaning Saints are one over the maximum number of quota players allowed in a squad.

The hooker made his NRL debut with Newcastle Knights back in 2018, before a switch to Canberra came in the following year. He has been with the Green Machine ever since, and has played 155 games for the club.

Starling will have some familiar faces around him in Super League next year. Previous teammates include Wakefield’s Emre Guler (84 appearances together), Bradford’s Ryan Sutton (48 appearances together) and Warrington’s Albert Hopoate (41 appearances together).

Tom Starling signs 3-year deal at St Helens

Commenting on the move, Tom Starling said: “This is such a great opportunity to be able to join such a prestigious club as St.Helens. I’m a bit of a rugby league nerd, so I keep up to date with Super League, and I’ve always admired the competition from afar, the style of rugby and the toughness of it. I’ve played alongside a few of the English lads in Canberra, and you see the passion they have for their clubs.

“I feel like I’ll fit in really well. I wear my heart on my sleeve, and I can see that same passion in the people of St.Helens. It’s a very passionate, loyal fanbase, and that reflects the way I play.

“I love the expectation of winning trophies. That’s why I play the game: to win, play with a bit of style and show passion. I’m so excited to get over there, immerse myself in the town and community, and become a Saint.”

CEO of St.Helens R.F.C. Abi Ekoku welcomed Tom Starling to the club and said: “Tom’s desire to join the Club has been infectious, and his hunger for success stands out.

“Saints supporters will embrace his skill, leadership & fierce competitiveness, and we look forward to welcoming him at the BrewDog Stadium.”

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