Hull KR make double signing

Hull KR have signed USA international centre Junior Vaivai and experienced forward Danny Tickle.

Vaivai, 28, has played in the NRL for South Sydney and Penrith, while Tickle has made more than 400 appearances in a distinguished career for Halifax, Wigan, Hull, Widnes, Castleford and Leigh.

Robins Head of Rugby, Jamie Peacock, said: “Junior is going to be a really strong acquisition for us. He mainly plays centre or wing but he’s got a bit of versatility as well and Brian McDermott said he was very good with the USA. I spoke to Sam Burgess about him during the World Cup as well and he was also singing his praises. He’s a good player and we’ve done well to add him to our squad.

“As for Danny, all the times I’ve played against him or trained with him as part of an England camp, I’ve thought him to be a very good player. He’s still got a lot to offer Hull KR with his experience, his rugby knowledge and also his goal-kicking, which could all prove to be invaluable.

“Danny’s more of a middle forward these days but he’s played a lot on the edge. He’s another who’s got plenty of experience and we need that. He’s done the battles in Super League and he was one of Leigh’s best players every week last year, so I’m delighted we’re bringing him in.

“Both players will really add to our squad. They’re both talented players in their own rights and they add to our depth, which is going to be a really key facet for us this season.”

Vaivai has signed a one-year deal with a further one-year option, and is still awaiting the necessary visa paperwork. Tickle moves to Craven Park on a one-year contract.