Will Oakes pens new deal with Hull KR

Drew Darbyshire

Will Oakes has signed a contract extension that will see him remain at Hull Kingston Rovers until the end of the 2021 season.

The 19-year-old joins Robbie Mulhern in signing a deal to remain at KCOM Craven Park for at least the next three seasons.

Oakes has scored five tries in 10 games for Rovers since making his debut in 2016.

And the Scotland international is delighted to have penned a new deal with Hull KR.

He said: “I’m really excited with the new deal.

“I’ve loved it at the club ever since I came here, it’s a great squad to be a part of and I’m enjoying working with a really knowledgeable coach in Tim Sheens.

“It’s been good for me always having somewhere to play whether it be with the first team, at York or for the academy, but I’m looking forward to hopefully securing a spot in the side here and playing week in, week out for Hull KR. I’ve just got to work hard, keep my head down and hopefully it’ll pay off.”

KR head coach Tim Sheens sees a lot of potential in Oakes.

He said: “People who know Will will know all about the ability he has.

“Physically, he’s got a fantastic platform for a young player of his age and we’re looking forward to working with him to fulfil his potential over the next few years.

“It’s a shame for Will that he’s picked up a thumb injury but we expect to have him back and challenging for a place in the team in another couple of weeks. He’s already featured for us on plenty of occasions over the last 18 months and handled himself very well.

“He’s quick, powerful and a good finisher as we’ve seen a few times already. At the moment we see him mainly as a winger but he’s got the talent and skillset to move infield to centre as he becomes more experienced.”