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Hull KR name former Kiwi captain Nathan Cayless as head coach

BBC Sport •
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Hull KR confirmed Nathan Cayless will take over as head coach on a three-year deal starting next season. The 48‑year‑old ex‑New Zealand forward replaces Willie Peters, who announced he will depart at the end of 2026 to lead the PNG Chiefs in the NRL. Cayless arrives after guiding Parramatta’s NSW Cup side and serving as New Zealand assistant.

Cayless spent his entire playing career at the Parramatta Eels, logging 259 games and a club‑record 221 captaincies. He also captained New Zealand to the 2008 World Cup triumph over Australia. His coaching résumé centers on talent pathways, developing reserve‑grade players for NRL readiness – a skill set Hull KR hopes will sustain success amid a crowded talent market.

The Robins entered the season as defending Super League champions, holding the League Leaders’ Shield and a World Club Challenge win. Sitting third behind Leeds, they face a crucial clash this week. Cayless inherits a squad fresh from a historic trophy haul and will be judged on maintaining that standard while nurturing home‑grown talent at Craven Park.