Joel Tomkins made Hull KR skipper

Hull KR have appointed Joel Tomkins as the club’s captain for the 2019 season.

Tomkins has replaced Shaun Lunt as skipper of the club after being elected by team-mates and performance staff for the role. Lunt will continue his rehabilitation process to return to full health.

The 31-year-old played a key role in KR’s success in the Qualifiers last season and has made a big impact at the club, earning the role for on and off-field duties.

On being appointed captain, Tomkins said: “It’s a massive privilege to be given the job especially as the boys voted for it, that really means a lot to me.

“I’ve worked really hard since I’ve come here to make a good impression, and this is a big reward for that.

“Obviously, Shaun (Lunt) has had a few issues towards the back end of last season and he hasn’t really done much so far this pre-season, so he decided to step down, but he has still got a massive role to play. We have a big group of senior boys, so it is not just down to me, we have a big group of leaders here.

“The big thing for me is that Tim (Sheens) asked the boys to vote for it and that is what means the most to me. You really need the boys behind you if you are to take the captaincy on so I’m really happy to do it and I’m really looking forward to this season.

“With the circumstances coming to the club last year it was a difficult time, so I really had to knuckle down and focus on myself to make a good an impression as I can. Being given the captaincy really draws a line in last season for me. I’m really looking forward to the next few years – I can’t wait to see what’s to come.”