After an incredible 2024, Hull KR have begun to secure their squad for the future after signing a key forward to a long-term deal.
The Robins recorded their best-ever Super League season as they finished second in the league and made the Grand Final – only to fall short to the all-conquering Wigan Warriors.
Since that defeat, Hull KR have already signed captain Elliot Minchella to a long-term deal and per reports in France have signed Catalans full-back Arthur Mourgue for the 2026 season.
They have now made another key decision with a view to the future after confirming that second-rower James Batchelor has signed a three-year contract extension, tying him to the club until at least the end of the 2029 season.
Batchelor, who will turn 27 during the upcoming season, is heading into his third season with Hull KR having proved an integral player during his first two years – making 52 appearances in total.
He had already been contracted until the end of the 2026 season but the three-year extension means he could now stay for a total of five more seasons highlighting the commitment that the Robins are prepared to make to him.
Hull KR extend contract of key forward James Batchelor
Credit: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
The second-rower has often been referenced by head coach Willie Peters as a player in the leadership group and he proved that when Batchelor took the armband for the semi-final win over Warrington Wolves.
He’ll continue to work alongside Elliot Minchella with both players now tied in for the next five seasons, highlighting how Hull KR are going about securing their key men on long-term deals as they look to retain this period of improvement.
Speaking on his new deal, Batchelor said: “I’m absolutely buzzing. When the club approached me and talked about extending, it was a no brainer, it was quick and there’s no place I’d rather be.
“As soon as I came and moved over here, me and my partner settled really well and we just loved it. We’re not from Hull, I wasn’t a Hull KR fan growing up, but it certainly feels like my club now.”
Head coach Willie Peters, who is also locked into a long-term contract, reacted to Batchelor’s deal by stating: “Batch is a key signing for us.
“It was important we locked him down long term, as he’s a big part of what we’re doing.
“I’ve seen a lot of growth in James, especially off-field in terms of his leadership. He’s very settled, which is helping him perform on the field, he’s one of our leaders and is very important to what this club is about.”
Just recently, Batchelor was handed the number 12 shirt for the upcoming season as Hull KR confirmed their squad numbers.
