Bold opening hook: Hull KR could be staring down a crucial fitness decision as they head toward the World Club Challenge, with Dean Hadley’s availability hanging in the balance.
Hull KR head coach Willie Peters has provided a comprehensive injury update ahead of the World Club Challenge, revealing continued uncertainty over Dean Hadley’s fitness. The influential forward was a late withdrawal from the clash with York Knights, with the reigning champions suffering a 19-18 shock loss at the LNER Community Stadium.
Hadley, 33, pulled out during warm-ups on Thursday night after being named to start in the front row. His place was taken by Jack Brown, and the Robins saw York rally from an 18-6 deficit to secure the win in front of a sell-out crowd. The result marked Hull KR’s first Super League fixture in the season promoted for 2026.
The setback compounded a controversial moment in the second half when Mikey Lewis was sent to the sin-bin for tripping Liam Harris, a decision that coincided with York overturning the deficit.
On a brighter note, new signing Tom Amone—part of the 2023 Dream Team—is expected to be fit to face Brisbane Broncos at the MKM Stadium. The high-profile clash will take place on February 19, shortly after the Broncos touched down in England.
Hooker Jez Litten also passed a head injury assessment to appear in the York game’s early exchanges, later contributing to Hull KR’s three-try haul.
Peters summed up the situation after the match: “Dean had a rib issue, and then he received an injection that didn’t have the desired effect. He didn’t take to the field, and we’re not sure on him yet—we’ll just have to wait and see. I hope he’s okay because he’s a key part of what we do.”
Jez Litten came through the game without issue, and Tom Amone should be fine as well; the final verdict will depend on how everyone recovers from York.
As the club awaits a clearer picture on Hadley’s condition, all eyes turn to whether he will be fit to contribute to Hull KR’s World Club Challenge campaign, with Amone and Litten representing optimism for a squad aiming to bounce back.
Would you be comfortable leaning on Hadley if he’s not fully recovered, or should Hull KR rotate to protect a vital forward for the bigger test against Brisbane? Share your thoughts in the comments.
