Castleford calls, young star catches eye, Tuimavave retires – the latest Hull FC notebook.
Hull FC interim coach Andy Last.
Hull FC will look to kick on under interim coach Andy Last this week, with the side next in Super League action against Castleford Tigers on Friday night. The Black and Whites began preparations for that fixture over the weekend, completing their recovery following Thursday night’s defeat to St Helens – a game that proved to be John Cartwright’s last in charge.
Elsewhere, the reserves produced a fair performance to defeat St Helens on Saturday afternoon, with the women’s derby against Hull KR also taking place on Sunday. Here is the latest notebook.
A look to Castleford
Leeds Rhinos will weigh up early on this week whether Harry Newman will be available to play for Hull FC at Castleford with the centre debuting on loan against St Helens last Thursday. Brad Arthur was open to the idea when speaking to media after the Rhinos’ game at Huddersfield on Friday, with Jack Bird again impressing in Newman’s spot. That reality means the 26-year-old is expected to play for Hull again with confirmation either way to come soon.
To their own borders, Hull – who saw Sam Lisone pick up a nasty looking bicep injury last week – could see Joe Batchelor back from a minor back injury this week, with the forward a welcome return to the side should he declared fit this week. Jake Arthur was also said to be a chance on Thursday. The half-back is currently battling a calf issue. Matty Laidlaw will also need to be cleared after copping a bang to his leg.
Elsewhere, Logan Moy should be a shoe-in for the full-back spot again, impressing last week against the Saints, with Last – who held the interim coach role in 2020 and made the Super League play-offs – set to put his own tweaks and tricks into action.
As for Castleford, they come into Friday’s game on the back of a fine 24-14 win at Wigan on Sunday. Consistency has been their challenge so far this year, with a tight and tough game anticipated in West Yorkshire. It’s also a big one in terms of the Super League season, which hits the conclusion of its first third this weekend. Hull can’t afford to fall too far behind the leading pack – and a win is crucial.
Reserves get the win
Hull FC defeated St Helens reserves 26-20 on Saturday, with Roman Dawson scoring a hat-trick of tries. Elsewhere, Lloyd Kemp and Caleb Paleaaesina crossed over, with Ryan Westerman landing three goals.
The centre, back in Danny Houghton’s side after foot and ankle injuries, was good value. He has a really strong catch and pass and his ability to put his winger away – demonstrated by Dawson’s tries – is arguably his strongest asset. He also carried well and drew praise from Houghton. He just needs more games now, with continuity vital, but he’s certainly one to watch as the year goes on.
Carlos Tuimavave confirms retirement
Double Hull FC cup winner Carlos Tuimavave has confirmed his retirement from professional rugby league. A Wembley winner in both 2016 and 2017, the Kiwi played 182 times for the club, scoring 57 tries. He left the club at the end of the 2024 season and played in the Championship for Featherstone Rovers in 2025.
But after heading back to New Zealand a couple of months ago, Tuimavave, now 34 years old and who debuted in the NRL with the Warriors, has now confirmed his retirement. Posting on his Instagram page, he wrote: “After 14 years in professional rugby league and now returning home, I’d like to officially announce my retirement from professional rugby league.
“From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a rugby league player, and to make my debut for my hometown club the New Zealand Warriors was a dream come true. Then a brief stint at the Newcastle Knights before spending the best part of a decade with Hull FC in the English Super League.
“Thank you for allowing me to represent your great clubs; it was truly an honour and privilege. The game of rugby league has given me so much: the friendships, the battles, the dressing rooms, the life lessons and all the memories along the way. I will cherish them forever.
“To my wife and kids, you packed up your lives and moved to the other side of the world for me. Through the ups and downs, injuries and setbacks, you have been by my side every step of the way. None of this would have been possible without you and I’ll be forever grateful for your love and sacrifice.
“Also to my parents and siblings, for always instilling the belief in me from a young age and for your love, support and guidance throughout my journey, thank you. I’m looking forward to the next chapter.”
Women edged out in derby
Hull FC women were defeated 18-16 in the women’s derby against Hull KR on Sunday afternoon. The game opened the Championship season, with the Black and Whites edged out after leading 6-0 at half-time.
Wheelchair side out of Challenge Cup
Hull FC’s wheelchair side were knocked out of the Challenge Cup at the quarter-final stage by Halifax Panthers on Saturday afternoon, with the West Yorkshire side defeating the Black and Whites 97-58.