Hull KR in halfback breakthrough as move for Challenge Cup winner picks up pace

[josie andrews]

Rovers are closing in on a new halfback to cover the loss of Jordan Abdull.

Hull KR have made a breakthrough on the hunt for a halfback, with a move for Ben Reynolds thought to be in its final stages. Rugby League Live understands the Robins are closing in on the 30-year-old, who is currently contracted with Rovers' dual-reg partners, Featherstone Rovers.

The Robins have seen previous attempts to sign Reynolds knocked back but they are thought to have made a significant breakthrough in the past 48 hours and all the indications now are that he will become a Rovers player.

Willie Peters has been on the lookout for a new playmaker since Jordan Abdull's departure from Catalans Dragons. Reynolds, who played against the club for Leigh Leopards in last year's Challenge Cup Final, has always been among their top targets. But it had previously appeared that a deal was unattainable, and the Robins are thought to have considered other targets.

But persistence looks set to pay off, with Reynolds to offer depth in the position and competition for places. He will compete for a jersey alongside Mikey Lewis and Tyrone May, who have partnered up in the first two games of the season.

Reynolds has made 59 Super League appearances during his career. He started at Castleford Tigers but it was a move to Leigh that saw him make a name for himself, playing a role in their dominant period in the Championship. There have been short stints at Wakefield Trinity and Toulouse Olympique but he has spent the majority of his career at Leigh Sports Village. He was a regular for the Leopards last year as they defied all expectations, making 27 appearances.

A move back to Featherstone followed for the current campaign and he was appointed captain. But the Robins have made their move and now, it appears they will get their man. Given he is under contract, a transfer fee is thought to be included in the deal.

It would put the penultimate piece in the puzzle for Peters when it comes to his squad for this season. The head coach wanted three additions to his squad before the season. Reynolds' arrival, coupled with that of winger Joe Burgess, leaves the Robins just looking for a forward to complete their roster for the season.

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