Hull KR confirm exit of Super League champion

Hull KR have confirmed that hooker Matt Parcell will depart at the end of the 2024 season.

It was expected that the former Leeds Rhinos man would leave the club given that he was off contract and it had been confirmed back in May that he was among the names that Hull KR had not offered a new contract to.

However, the 31-year-old has had an upsurge in form in the second half of the season, even usurping England international Jez Litten as the Robins’ first-choice hooker. Such impressive form had seen fans question why he was being allowed to leave with even Willie Peters stating that he had the quality to play on if he wanted to.

But his exit is now official with the club releasing a statement to announce his departure, bringing an end to his five-year stay with the club in which he made almost 120 appearances.

Fittingly, his final regular season game for Hull KR will be a home fixture against former club Leeds Rhinos when the sides face off on Friday night.

Hull KR confirm Matt Parcell departure

Sharing a press release, Hull KR stated: “Hull KR can confirm Matt Parcell will depart the club at the end of the 2024 Betfred Super League season.

“A firm fan favourite amongst the Red Army, Parcell made an immediate impression in his Hull KR debut in June 2019, scoring the match-winning try in the Robins’ 18-10 derby win over Hull FC.

“Since his debut, Parcell has gone on to make 118 appearances, scoring 33 tries. A dangerous ball runner and a fierce competitor, the 31-year-old was a key figure in Hull KR’s progression up the table, helping the Robins to their highest Super League points tally this season alongside two Super League Play-Off semi-finals and the 2023 Betfred Challenge Cup Final.”

The 2024 season has seen Parcell feature in 24 of the club’s 26 Super League games, highlighting just how essential he has been.

Hull KR have already sought replacements in veteran Micky McIlorum and young London Broncos star Bill Leyland.

What they said as Parcell leaves

Hull KR head coach Willie Peters commented on Parcell’s exit, stating: “I would like to thank Matty for his contribution to Hull KR over the past five and a half years.

“Matty has played an important role in helping the club reach the strong position it is in today. I know Matty would love nothing more than to help bring us our first Super League trophy and he will continue to give his best to help make that happen.

“On behalf of the club I would like to wish Matty, Steph and Sadie all the very best for the future.”

As for Parcell, he offered a heartfelt thanks to the Robins’ faithful: “Firstly, I’d just like to thank the fans and supporters for the appreciation I’ve received at Hull KR and since arriving in the UK.

“I have truly loved my time in England, and it has been the best experience filled with incredible people and wonderful memories. We also welcomed our beautiful daughter, Sadie, and became British citizens—milestones that will forever be special.

“I also want to thank my wife, Steph, for your love and support. I’m not exactly sure when we first moved over that she envisioned that we would still be here 8 years later but she has been an absolute star and we have friendships and memories for life.

“But after eight seasons in the Super League, we feel that now is the right time for us to move back to Australia to be closer to family. This decision comes with a mix of emotions, but with the opportunity to stay at Hull KR not an option, we believe moving back to Australia is the best choice for our family at this stage in our lives.

“I am very much looking forward to my remaining weeks at Hull KR and hope to finish my time here on a massive high.’

“I’ve loved every single game running out to Sewell Group Craven Park, since my first derby back in 2019 and I am immensely grateful for the experiences, friendships, and unforgettable moments both on and off the field here.

“I was fortunate enough to lift the trophy at Old Trafford in my first season in England, so it would be an incredible experience if I could do it again in my final year. Thank you once again for the love and support.”