Brad Takairangi stood down by Hull KR, confirms Tony Smith

Drew Darbyshire
Brad Takairangi Hull KR

Hull KR have stood down Brad Takairangi whilst he awaits to be sentenced at the end of the month for serious driving offences.

The 32-year-old, who joined the Robins ahead of last season from the NRL, pleaded guilty to drink-driving last week.

Brad Takairangi will appear before Hull Crown Court on March 31 for sentencing.

The New Zealand and Cook Islands international played for Hull KR against St Helens last week, but coach Tony Smith today confirmed that he would not play again until the legalities are done.

Smith said: “We are going to stand him down this week. We as a club have decided to stand him down until his hearing.

“We need to do something there and recognise the situation that Brad’s in and make sure we do the best by him as well. Sometimes that is by removing people from situations where they may not be able to fulfil to their best as well.

“Brad understands and, as he has done ever since the incident, has been in agreement in his admission of the situation and he is not shying away from it and his responsibility of it.

“I think that case is scheduled for the 31st so he will be stood down until that hearing is heard.”


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Smith added: “We are getting him all the help and support and he’s open arms to it too. From day one he’s put his hand up about it all and hasn’t avoided anything.

“He has done everything that has been asked of him and complied. He’s taken things into his own hands to try and make sure he makes things better for everyone involved.

“He’s embarrassed about it and disappointed about it. He can’t do enough to try and make up for it and I believe him.”

Next up for Hull KR is a trip to Salford on Friday night in round five of Super League.

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