Super League star seemingly set for exit

Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves and Hull FC may have all completed signings for the 2024 season but the busiest club has had to be Hull KR.

The Robins have drafted in former Wigan star Oliver Gildart for next year even though he is currently plying his trade with Leigh Leopards who defeated Hull KR at Wembley in the Challenge Cup Final.

They have also brought in Peta Hiku from North Queensland Cowboys. He previously featured for Warrington Wolves.

AJ Wallace also joins from Bradford Bulls. The former Leeds Rhinos academy player was previously chased by Castleford Tigers and Hull FC.

Their business was then added to yesterday by the arrival of Tyrone May. His arrival means they have three halfbacks contracted for next year in the shape of Jordan Abdull, Mikey Lewis, Rowan Milnes and now May.

This suggests that Brad Schneider, who signed on a short term deal, will be leaving the club at the end of the year.

He may return to the NRL but clubs like Leeds, Hull FC and Wigan will no doubt be keeping an eye on him.

Turning back to May, since making his NRL debut in July 2017 with Penrith Panthers, the 27-year-old has gone to make 92 top-flight appearances, firstly with the Panthers before joining current Super League leaders, Catalans Dragons in 2022.

Able to play in the halves, at centre and within the back row, May was part of the Panthers’ NRL Grand Final winning side in 2021 with the former Minchinbury Jets player coming off the bench to help Penrith secure their first NRL premiership since 2003.

A dangerous ball runner with a devastating short pass and kicking game, the 6’2 halfback will add further strike to the Robins’ spine for 2024 as he’s joined by former teammate, Peta Hiku, AJ Wallace and Super League Grand Final winner, Oliver Gildart as part of the club’s new arrivals for next season.

Hull KR Head Coach, Willie Peters was pleased to secure May’s services from 2024: ‘Tyrone (May) has been a player on our radar for a while. He’s been really dominant in Super League over the last two seasons. We were looking to bolster our spine with some more experience and Tyrone will definitely bring that.

‘Tyrone’s played in the big games and finals. He’s been part of such a successful club like Penrith and he’s doing wonderful things in Catalans, I’m looking forward to having his experience and knowledge with us next year to help us mentor our younger guys.’

‘He can play standoff, half back, centre and loose forward, Tyrone’s versatility is going to be great for us but we’re looking for him to cement a spot in our halves.’

Speaking on his move to East Hull, May had his eyes set on joining the rising Robins: ‘I’m excited about signing with the Robins for next year. After chatting with Willie, it happened pretty quickly.

‘I’m focused on finishing the season strong with Catalans but seeing Hull KR improve this year under Willie (Peters) and the direction they’re going in, it’s exciting to be a part of that next year.

‘I was with Peta (Hiku) at Panthers. I got along with him really well, he’s a good fella. It’s good to have a familiar face there too. The boys that are at Hull KR already are doing a good job this year, I’m looking forward to linking up with them next season – it’s exciting times.’