Talented hooker has signed a fresh long-term deal with the Challenge Cup holders.
Hull KR’s Bill Leyland during his side’s Captain’s Run at Wembley ahead of the Challenge Cup final.
Bill Leyland signed a new deal at Hull KR and admitted: This has become my second home. The talented hooker has penned a fresh three-year contract that takes him through until the end of 2028.
He joined from Championship London Broncos ahead of the current campaign and had looked the part in his brief appearances so far. Leyland, who once feared his chance of playing Super League might never arrive, was always destined to be third-choice No9 behind England hookers Jez Litten and Michael McIlorum.
But with ex-Wigan and Catalans ace McIlorum retiring at the end of this year, he will get an increased role in 2026. Leyland made his Robins debut in March and has gone on to make ten appearances for Willie Peters’ side.
The London-born player, who initially joined until the end of 2026, said: “I’m really happy to re-sign with Hull KR. Hull has become a real second home to me. I was targeting to play this season and so far, I’ve had the opportunity to show what I can bring to Hull KR in the next three years.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity and even more grateful for the guidance that Micky (McIlorum) and Jez (Litten) have shown me this year.
“They’ve helped me with my general passing and skill, deception and knowing when to run and not to run. They’ve really taken me under their wing.
“It’s been a great experience so far at Hull KR, I’ve been pleased with how it’s gone and I want to keep improving over the next three years.”
Leyland crossed for a debut try against Oldham in the Challenge Cup fourth round and featured heavily in the club’s route to Wembley, although missed out on the final after McIlorum returned from injury for their historic win against Warrington Wolves.
Known for his explosive running and ability to find space around the ruck, it is clear he could be a star of Super League for years to come even if he had a debut to forget when on loan at Huddersfield Giants earlier this year.
Peters admitted: “We’re pleased Bill has signed a new deal with the club.
“We believe Bill’s best years are ahead of him. He’s still within the early stages of his development as a Super League player and it’s up to Bill with how far he wants to go with his career with what he puts into it.”