Hull KR agree deal for Tevita Pangai Junior as squad knock-on effect emerges.
11:46, 21 Apr 2026Updated 11:53, 21 Apr 2026
Tevita Pangai is set to join Hull KR for the remainder of the 2026 Super League season.
Hull KR are set to sign Tevita Pangai Junior for the remainder of the 2026 Super League season – and the move could trigger changes at Sewell Group Craven Park.
The Robins have been linked with the former Catalans and NRL forward since the start of the year. Now, Love Rugby League reports that the reigning champions have completed a deal for the 30-year-old following a brief spell in French rugby union.
Pangai Jr is expected to link up with Rovers early next month, adding size and impact to Willie Peters’ pack.
However, the signing has raised eyebrows. The former Brisbane Broncos, Penrith Panthers, Canterbury Bulldogs and Dolphins prop struggled to make a consistent impression during his stint in Perpignan with Catalans.
He made 23 appearances in a turbulent campaign in the south of France, which saw long-serving head coach Steve McNamara depart after eight years in charge. He was replaced by Joel Tomkins, who has since left the club and returned to England for personal reasons, with assistant Ryan Sheridan taking interim charge.
Rovers boss Peters has built a strong culture during a transformational period, and if he has backed Pangai Jr’s arrival, Hull KR supporters are likely to trust that judgement.
Nevertheless, the move could have a knock-on effect on the club’s squad, with Rovers understood to be close to the salary cap.
It may result in a current player moving on, particularly after recent investment in retention. Hull KR recently secured Peta Hiku on a deal for 2027, while key figures Mikey Lewis, Elliot Minchella and Jez Litten are tied down long-term.
The contracts of first-team regulars Jack Brown, Rhyse Martin and Sauaso Sue all currently expire at the end of 2026. Lee Kershaw and Zach Fishwick are the remaining two members to be off-contract.
Brown, 25, is poised to link up with Castleford Tigers for 2027, and if Rovers need to make salary cap space, he would appear the most likely departure.
Having previously agreed a move to Warrington Wolves before a late U-turn ahead of the new season, Pangai Jr will add further punch to Hull KR’s pack, alongside close to 200 games of top-level experience. Tom Amone and Sue have impressed in recent weeks with Rovers returning to winning ways, with Bradford Bulls next up in Super League for the first time since the club’s return to the top flight.