KEIGHLEY Cougars have retained a key member of their forward pack, as they look to gain promotion from Betfred League 1 in 2025.

Prop Mark Ioane was an eye-catching signing from Leigh in October 2022, as Keighley bolstered their front row ahead of their 2023 Championship campaign.

Despite relegation, Ioane stayed put last season, as Cougars surprisingly lost the League 1 play-off final against Hunslet to ensure they remained in the third tier.

Yet Ioane believes in what the club are doing, and this week, the 33-year-old signed a new two-year deal to remain at Keighley until the end of the 2026 season.

Speaking to the club after his new contract was announced, a delighted Ioane said: “The fans are great.

“The support they have given me over the last two years made this an easy decision for me.”

Head coach Jake Webster is equally thrilled and knows just how much Ioane can bring to his squad.

Mark Ioane and Jake Webster on the sidelines with Will Maher during Keighley's play-off win over Rochdale in September.Mark Ioane and Jake Webster on the sidelines with Will Maher during Keighley's play-off win over Rochdale in September. (Image: JT Sports Media.)

The former New Zealand international said: “Having Mark in our team only makes us stronger.

“His presence on the field and his name on the team sheet is very valuable to us.”

Before Ioane joined Leigh, who he helped to the 1895 Cup and promotion double in 2022, he made over 100 appearances for London Broncos.

Before that, the New Zealand native had spent time playing in Australia with the Gold Coast Titans, St George Illawarra and the Canberra Raiders.

His first club, as a teenager, was the New Zealand Warriors, who are based in his home city of Auckland.

They are the only NRL team to hail from outside of Australia.