Hull KR sign prop Jai Whitbread from Wakefield Trinity and release Rhys Kennedy

Jai Whitbread played 30 NRL games before moving to England with Leigh in 2021 from Gold Coast Titans

Hull KR have signed prop Jai Whitbread from Wakefield Trinity on a three-year deal from next season while Rhys Kennedy has been released by the club.

Australian Whitbread joins the Robins after two seasons with Trinity and following the west Yorkshire side's relegation from Super League.

Fellow Aussie Kennedy, 29, leaves with a year of his contract remaining.

"I'll put my best foot forward every time I take the field," Whitbread, 25, told Hull KR's official website.

"I had a conversation with [head coach] Willie Peters and he explained his vision for Hull KR and the board of directors' vision for the club.

"It was very attractive for me as a player just to hear what's being put in place and the improvements all around the club - it was all positive."

The departing Kennedy joined the Robins for 2023 from Brisbane Broncos after 144 first-grade and reserve games in Australia, including a spell at Souths.

He played 26 games, scoring once, as Hull KR made the top four, play-off semi-final and Challenge Cup final.

"I want to thank Rhys for his contribution to Hull KR this season," head coach Peters said.

"We wish him all the best for the future along with his partner, Jordynne."