Hull KR sign Broncos hooker Leyland

Image source, SWpix

Image caption, Bill Leyland played a key role in London Broncos' promotion last year

Hull Kingston Rovers have signed London Broncos hooker Bill Leyland.

Leyland, 21, has agreed a two-year contract, which will begin from 2025. He will miss the entire 2024 campaign after suffering anterior cruciate ligament damage during pre-season.

Broncosthey were "bitterly disappointed" to lose him and that the club's promotion to the Super League and resultant full-time status meant a two-year part-time contract he signed "was effectively null and void".

The London club say Leyland subsequently agreed a one-year full-time contract after rejecting a two-year deal and that they "remain committed" to supporting him through his rehabilitation from his knee injury.

He was a standout performer for Broncos in their promotion-winning season, making 32 appearances and scoring 13 tries.

"We're really happy to sign Bill on a two-year deal as we see him as a future first-team player at Hull KR,"

"We showed interest in Bill last year but he decided to finish his studies before moving out of London.

β€˜Bill has been unlucky with his injury this season but he’s a big body with some real power and we’re looking forward to him joining the side next season.

"What I admire about Bill is his self-confidence and his drive to want to improve. Bill wants to take himself and Hull KR up to the next level next season."

Leyland said: β€˜I’m really excited to be joining Hull KR. I’ve always wanted to push myself and be ambitious in the game and I think this is the right club to take my game to the next level."