Hull KR potential debut hinted as spots open up for Challenge Cup clash

Hull KR could hand a competitive first-team debut to off-season recruit Bill Leyland in this week’s Challenge Cup clash against Oldham. Head coach Willie Peters has named his squad for the round four clash, with veteran hooker Michael McIlorum a notable absentee. Leyland returns to the 21-player squad, and the former London Broncos hooker could make his bow for Rovers against their Championship opposition on Friday at Sewell Group Craven Park.

Jez Litten retains his spot, and could start, with Leyland a potential on the bench for Peters. The Hull KR head coach chose the youngster as his one to watch in the 2025 campaign , having impressed in the pre-season Amsterdam fixture against York Knights. He suffered a cruel campaign-ending ACL injury during last year’s pre-season with London Broncos, but still impressed enough previously to sign a two-year deal with Rovers.



Meanwhile, a spot has opened up in the forward pack after Dean Hadley failed his head injury assessment during the Super League win over St Helens. The experienced 32-year-old suffered a head knock in the first half at the Totally Wicked Stadium as Rovers recorded their best start to a top-flight season in 40 years with four opening wins. New Zealand international Jared Waerea-Hargreaves, who has played every Super League game so far this season, has been left out of the squad.

In positive news, Niall Evalds is back in contention after being given the all-clear to make his return from a head knock. The full-back missed the win over Paul Wellens’ Saints after being taken high in the opening 90 seconds against Salford Red Devils at home in round three. Hull KR 21-man squad : Niall Evalds, Tom Davies, Peta Hiku, Oliver Gildart, Joe Burgess, Mikey Lewis, Tyrone May, Sauaso Sue, Jez Litten, James Batchelor, Elliot Minchella , Sam Luckley, Jai Whitbread, Jack Broadbent, Danny Richardson, Kelepi Tanginoa, Jack Brown, Lee Kershaw, Eribe Doro, Bill Leyland, Leon Ruan.

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