Tomkins leaves KR
19 Sep 2019
Hull Kingston Rovers have granted captain Joel Tomkins his release from the club on compassionate grounds.
The second-rower joined Rovers in June 2018 from Wigan Warriors, where he helped the club maintain their place in the Betfred Super League that year.
After penning an extension until the end of 2021, Tomkins was selected as captain for the 2019 campaign replacing Shaun Lunt as skipper, and played a big role in the second successive survival season.
The 32-year-old, who scored six tries in 35 appearances, had two years left to run on his contract but the club has accepted a request from Tomkins to cut short his stay at KCOM Craven Park.
Head coach Tony Smith said: “Joel has asked the club for a release on compassionate grounds and we have accepted.
“Joel and I have a great relationship and we have thoroughly enjoyed working with each other.
“Everybody at the club would like to wish him all the very best of luck for the future and thank him for his time, efforts and leadership whilst at Rovers.??
Tomkins added: “I would like to thank all the players, staff and fans of Hull KR for their support during my time at the club.
“I would like to especially thank (owner) Neil Hudgell and (head coach) Tony Smith for understanding my position and accepting my request to be released.
“I believe that now is the right time for me to move on and look at the next chapter of my career.
“I have really enjoyed working with Tony and genuinely believe he is the right man to take this club to the next level. I wish the team the best of luck for the future.??
