Michael McIlorum’s next career move has been confirmed, while a former Hull KR head coach has landed a new gig in Australia.
Michael McIlorum in action for Hull KR.
Michael McIlorum will officially return to Catalans Dragons ahead of the 2026 Super League season, appointed as an assistant coach under Joel Tomkins.
The veteran hooker will return to Perpignan, having spent seven seasons as a player following a move from Wigan Warriors in 2018. He quickly established himself as a key figure for the Dragons, lifting a Challenge Cup and the League Leaders’ Shield, as well as helping the side reach Old Trafford twice.
McIlorum, 37, will leave Hull KR at the end of the year after one season, having made a big impact at Sewell Group Craven Park.
He joins former NRL star Mitchell Pearce in becoming an assistant coach at Catalans. The ex-New South Wales representative spent his two final seasons as a player in the South of France, retiring at the end of the 2023 campaign. He becomes the club’s new attack coach.
“I would like to express my deep gratitude to Bernard [Guasch] for his trust in me and offering me this role,” said McIlorum.
“I am delighted to be working alongside Joel and Mitchell, a great team with whom I look forward to working alongside to get the Dragons back competing against the best.
“I am happy to be going back home to be with my family and back to the Stade Gilbert and reconnect with the passionate supporters.
“I am proud to represent this club and to share the next two years with you. We will give everything we have, every day, to bring pride back to the Catalans Dragons jersey.”
Meanwhile, former Hull KR head coach Craig Sandercock has landed a new role down under. He has been appointed the new boss of Wests Tigers’ NRWL outfit on a two-year deal.
Sandercock’s first head coaching role in the top grade was with the Robins, appointed from Newcastle Knights. He returned to Australia in 2014.
He has since been a part of backroom teams at Wests Tigers, Cronulla Sharks and Canterbury Bulldogs in the NRL as an assistant coach. He succeeds Brett Kimmorley at Wests Tigers’ NRLW team.