Sky Sports’ Jon Wilkin has his say on Willie Peters and Hull KR.
Ex-England and Great Britain international Jon Wilkin made 31 appearances for Hull KR as a youngster.
Jon Wilkin has described the impending vacancy at Hull KR as an “exciting opportunity”, crediting the strong foundations laid by departing head coach Willie Peters.
The 47-year-old Australian has guided the Robins through a historic period, establishing them as a dominant force in rugby league. Over the past 12 months, the club has claimed every major honour available, culminating in World Club Challenge success in February against Brisbane Broncos.
This season will mark the end of Peters’ tenure during a landmark era for the East Hull side. He is set to take on a new challenge, building the PNG Chiefs from the ground up as their inaugural head coach ahead of their entry as the NRL’s 19th team in 2028.
Echoing fellow Sky Sports pundit and former star Sam Tomkins, Wilkin believes the announcement will not disrupt Hull KR’s 2026 campaign – and presents an attractive opening for a successor.
“I don’t think it derails them. The players have too much professional integrity, and Willie Peters is an incredible coach. I’d be surprised if it has a disruptive effect,” Wilkin said.
“It does present a bit of a challenge when it comes to recruitment, but I’d imagine Hull KR have already got 2027 boxed off in that regard.
“There was always an inevitability about Willie Peters moving on. It was something they knew they would have to contend with.
“He’s an outstanding young coach who is only on the up and up. It’s a sad moment for Hull KR, but also an exciting opportunity for whoever comes in next because he’s left the club in such a strong position.”
The timing of Peters’ departure leaves Hull KR well placed to identify his successor, with time firmly on their side. The process will be overseen by forward-thinking CEO Paul Lakin, who has long been aware of Peters’ ambition to make his mark in the NRL and has remained open about their strong working relationship.
Peters told Hull KR officials and his players of the decision last week, with the all-conquering squad responding in emphatic fashion after thumping St Helens 52-10 just 24 hours later.