Hull KR part company with Cockayne
Hull KR have announced that they have parted company with utility player Ben Cockayne by mutual consent, making him a free agent with immediate effect.
Cockayne has been suspended by the Super League club for the past fortnight pending investigations into an incident involving clubmate Liam Watts.
Rovers have met with Cockayne’s agent David Howes and it has been decided that a clean break would be beneficial to both the club and the player.
Mike Smith, Rovers CEO, said: “We would like to thank Ben for his contribution to the club over the last five years and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
Howes explained: “It must be stressed that the Police are not taking any action against Ben with regard to the car chase as he was the passenger and thus an innocent party.
“The Police previously decided that the well documented Facebook episode also required no action.
“However, having received a final warning for the Facebook comments on diversity grounds and because of the negativity surrounding this latest incident, it is felt that Ben and the club will both benefit from a clean break.
“The Super League signing deadline passed last Friday, so Ben may seek a Championship contract for the rest of this season to maintain his fitness while talking to Super League clubs for the 2012 campaign onwards.”
Cockayne added: “I would like to thank Hull KR, and particularly coach Justin Morgan, for giving me the opportunity to experience Rugby League at the highest level. Also my fellow players for their comradeship and support.
“I am extremely sad to be leaving the club that I have grown to love dearly. But I leave with many happy memories, none greater than the National League Grand Final victory which earned promotion to Super League, where Rovers belong.
“Many thanks to the faithful Robins fans who have stuck by me through some turbulent times. The Rovers supporters are the most passionate and loyal in Super League and, above everything else, they are what I will miss most.”