Hull KR sign Broncos hooker Leyland

Bill Leyland played a key role in London Broncos' promotion last year

Hull Kingston Rovers have signed London Broncos hooker Bill Leyland.

Leyland, 21, has agreed a two-year contract, which will begin from 2025. He will miss the entire 2024 campaign after suffering anterior cruciate ligament damage during pre-season.

Broncos said on their website they were "bitterly disappointed" to lose him and that the club's promotion to the Super League and resultant full-time status meant a two-year part-time contract he signed "was effectively null and void".

The London club say Leyland subsequently agreed a one-year full-time contract after rejecting a two-year deal and that they "remain committed" to supporting him through his rehabilitation from his knee injury.

He was a standout performer for Broncos in their promotion-winning season, making 32 appearances and scoring 13 tries.

"We're really happy to sign Bill on a two-year deal as we see him as a future first-team player at Hull KR," said Rovers head coach Willie Peters.

"We showed interest in Bill last year but he decided to finish his studies before moving out of London.

‘Bill has been unlucky with his injury this season but he’s a big body with some real power and we’re looking forward to him joining the side next season.

"What I admire about Bill is his self-confidence and his drive to want to improve. Bill wants to take himself and Hull KR up to the next level next season."

Leyland said: ‘I’m really excited to be joining Hull KR. I’ve always wanted to push myself and be ambitious in the game and I think this is the right club to take my game to the next level."