The opportunity to finish his career in the No.6 jumper is believed to be the reason behind Sydney Roosters skipper Braith Anasta’s decision to jump ship to NRL rivals Wests Tigers next season.

Anasta will link up with the Tigers on a two-year deal, with the former NSW Origin and Australian representative to line up at five-eighth – with Benji Marshall sliding over to halfback.

It had been mentioned that Anasta would take over from departing Englishman Gareth Ellis in the back row, but Tigers coach Tim Sheens wants to use the 30-year-old as a playmaker to help ease the load on Marshall and skipper Robbie Farah.

Anasta – who was punted from five-eighth to the back row during Todd Carney’s turbulent stay at the tri-colours – was again facing the prospect of losing his No.6 jumper with Warriors star James Maloney already signed to head to Bondi Junction in 2013.

The Roosters had been lukewarm to the prospect of re-signing Anasta – who joined the club from Canterbury in 2006 – with his manager Greg Willett saying talks had been going on with the Tigers for the past couple of weeks.

“Braith is a very experienced campaigner who continues to perform at the highest level,” Tigers chief executive Stephen Humphreys said.

“His leadership, professionalism and knowledge of the game will be invaluable to our club.”

While glad to have his future sorted, Anasta said he was more concerned with finishing his time with the Roosters on a high note.

“I look forward to making a big contribution to an already strong and talented playing group under Tim Sheens over the next two years,” Anasta said in a statement released by the club.

“While I look forward to the challenges ahead, my immediate priority remains focused on this season.

“There’s a great young squad here at the Roosters and I have a massive ambition to make 2012 a memorable year for the club.”