A look at Hull’s recruitment for 2026.
Hull FC coach John Cartwright.(Image: SW PIX)
Hull FC’s recruitment is now eight strong for 2026, with Joe Phillips and Arthur Romano the latest additions. But where does that leave the squad, and where could Hull, who are continuing their balance of youth and experience, look to strengthen further still ahead of next season?
The pack
There’s been no secret of Hull’s main priority going into next season: the pack, both on the edge and through the middle. In the back row, Joe Batchelor and Connor Bailey arrive to compete with Jed Cartwright, while Will Kirby and Lennon Clark will also look for big pre-seasons this autumn.
In the middle, Hull have been keen to bolster their numbers after an injury-hit year and one glance at their roster now shows plenty of depth and competition. They tied down the likes of Herman Ese’ese, Liam Knight, and Ligi Sao to new deals, signed Harvie Hill and Sam Lisone, and added further reinforcements in an emerging young talent in Joe Phillips. Add to that Brad Fash, Yusuf Aydin, Matty Laidlaw, and Hugo Salabio, and it’s a position well stocked.
Depth at loose
Hull really felt the loss of John Asiata mid-season. The loose-forward was ever present for the first 15 games in league and cup before tearing his hamstring. He then played two more before tearing it again. But the signing of James Bell from St Helens tightens the role up in case of any reoccurrence. It also allows Hull to spell Asiata and not run him into the ground every week while ensuring the way the side plays never wavers.
A skilful player in his own right, Bell is renowned as a smart and crisp link in the middle of the field and he has the capability to play and shape up how John Cartwright desires. It’s a really smart signing.
The spine
Hull made their decisions quick on a new spine player and after missing out on Jock Madden, they tied down Jake Arthur to partner Aidan Sezer next season. The signing also ensures Will Pryce will continue on at full-back with Cade Cust playing from the interchange at either half-back or hooker – the role he was originally signed for.
As for dummy half, Amir Bourouh and Denive Balmforth will compete for a spot, with Hull – who also have the Kemp twins, Will Hutchinson, and Logan Moy to call on – well covered in all of the spine spots.
The outside backs
Hull signed Romano to add depth and competition to the outside backs. He’s a good option to call on and keeps the current centres and wingers on their toes, with Harvey Barron, Lewis Martin, Tom Briscoe, Zak Hardaker, Ed Chamberlain, and Davy Litten all options alongside two rising young players in Ryan Westerman and Joe Ward.
What’s next?
As far as new additions go, never say never. If Hull feel like they can add to the squad, whether that be the back row or again the middle, then should the cap allow it, they will. They’ve shown a forward-thinking approach over the last 18 months and that stance is set to continue into the future.