Joel Tomkins pens three-year deal at Hull KR

James Gordon

Joel Tomkins has signed a new three-year deal at Hull KR.

Tomkins, 31, moved to KCOM Craven Park from Wigan in June and is now committed until the end of 2021.

He said: “At the end of the season I had a chat with Neil and Tim where they offered me a three year deal and I jumped at the chance. It really gives me an opportunity to really stick my teeth into it and I’m happy to be spending the next three years at Hull KR.

“Joining halfway through the season was quite tough with coming into a new environment where all the boys knew each other, but the boys and the staff were all fantastic with me, and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here so far.

“The fans have been really welcoming as well as the whole city, I have really enjoyed my time here so far and now moving over to the city gives me an opportunity to experience a different culture.”

The forward came through the ranks at Wigan before switching codes to play rugby union for Saracens, where he also represented England.

An England rugby league international too, he returned to the 13-man game in 2014 again with Wigan, and made just under 250 appearances for them across his two spells.

Hull KR coach Tim Sheens said: The idea is to really establish the team longer term and not go year by year in terms of changes to the squad.

“That is why we have tied down a number of our senior players to long-term deals, of which Joel is certainly one.

“Joel has become a leader within the group and is setting high standards for the boys as a senior figure, he fits perfectly with the culture we are trying to create at the club.”