Akim Matvejev (born 29 June 2006) is an Estonian professional rugby league footballer who plays as a forward for Batley Bulldogs in the RFL Championship, on a season-long loan from Castleford Tigers in the Super League.
He has previously spent time on loan at Rochdale Hornets and Workington Town in RFL League One.
Background Matvejev was born in Tallinn, Estonia. He moved with his family to England in 2012.
He studied at Bruntcliffe Academy and Leeds College of Building.
Matvejev played junior rugby league for Drighlington ARLFC after he took up the sport aged 12. He joined the Castleford Tigers development system at scholarship level.
Playing career Castleford Tigers In April 2024, Matvejev signed a two-year contract with the Castleford Tigers alongside nine academy teammates. He was first named in the 21-man squad to face Leigh on 1 August and assigned squad number 39, although did not feature. On 13 September, Matvejev made his Super League debut for Castleford against St Helens as an interchange. In doing so, he became the first Estonian to play in the Super League. He made his first senior start the following week against Huddersfield.
Rochdale Hornets (loan) On 7 August 2025, Matvejev joined Rochdale Hornets in RFL League One on loan for the remainder of the season.
Batley Bulldogs (loan) On 28 January 2026, it was announced that Matvejev would join Batley Bulldogs in the RFL Championship on a season-long loan for 2026. He scored his first professional try for Batley on 26 April against Goole Vikings, powering through the middle of the defence.
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