Rovers add NRL forward

Hull Kingston Rovers have announced the signing of forward Brad Takairangi from Parramatta Eels on a two-year deal.

The Cook Island and New Zealand international offers the Robins depth in a number of positions.

Takairangi made his NRL debut for Sydney Roosters and played alongside now fellow Robins, Mose Masoe, Shaun Kenny-Dowall and Kane Linnett.

Head Coach Tony Smith told the club website: “He’s a very experienced player with a lot of versatility. Brad is able to play in the back-row, centres and stand-off. His versatility and experience will be enormous for us and will add to our strength in depth in a number of positions. Should we need him to fill in any of those positions he will be more than comfortable and proficient.

“Brad is fresh off the back of a successful 2020 campaign with Paramatta Eels, where he starred in the semi-finals. He’s played at international level and nearly 200 games in the NRL, so he brings experience in various roles. He’s at the stage of his career where he’s in the leadership group, so he will help us further develop the younger players.

“The Luis Johnson deal really enabled this to get across the line.  That deal we did with Warrington allowed us to get to the levels in order to secure Brad, so whilst we weren’t on the lookout for that deal originally, it’s ended up helping us get two strong players.”