Papua New Guinea international McKenzie Yei makes Championship move

Featherstone Rovers have announced the signing of Papua New Guinea international McKenzie Yei for the 2023 Championship campaign.

Yei, 25, joins having appeared for the Kumuls at this year’s World Cup in England. He made three appearances during the campaign, as well as featuring against Fiji in the mid-season international.

The hard-hitting forward makes the switch from Queensland Cup side Queensland Capra. He also previously featured for PNG Hunters. 

McKenzie Yei on England move

“I’m looking forward to a new career in the UK with a progressive club like Featherstone Rovers,” he said.

“I enjoyed playing in the UK during the World Cup and I was fortunate enough to meet the coach Sean Long.  

“I’m excited to be working with him and carrying on a strong tradition of PNG players at Featherstone Rovers. I’m looking forward to working hard and playing my part in taking Featherstone Rovers to promotion to Super League in 2023 and I appreciate the opportunity to be part of this club.”

Head coach Sean Long added: “I’m really pleased that we’ve secured McKenzie’s signature. It’s a real coup for us. I’ve watched him over the last three years both at international and club level and he’ll add some real punch to our squad.”

Meanwhile, the club have announced that captain James Lockwood has re-signed for next season.