High praise for the consistent Hull KR duo.
Hull KR star Peta Hiku has described team-mates Jez Litten and Dean Hadley as “awesome” for their relentless performances in the middle of the field this season.
The key duo have been instrumental in the Robins’ success in 2025, each taking their game to the next level under head coach Willie Peters.
Litten’s recent man-of-the-match displays – including standout performances against St Helens and Wigan – have not gone unnoticed. Great Britain legend Paul Sculthorpe is among those calling for the 27-year-old to start for England in this year’s highly anticipated Ashes series, with Australia set to tour this autumn.
The livewire hooker made his international debut in 2023 – his only cap to date – in a 64-0 win over France, and was named in Shaun Wane’s extended squad earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Hadley has enjoyed an impressive campaign at Sewell Group Craven Park, with England boss Wane leaving the door open for a potential call-up for the versatile forward – having left him out in the initial squad in June.
He was also recently rewarded with a new extended deal, having already been contracted for 2026.
With a historic double firmly in Hull KR’s sights, the pair have played influential roles in the club’s strong form, drawing praise from Hiku.
“They’ve been awesome for us,” said the Kiwi veteran. “They’re probably the backbone of our team, obviously we’ve got a lot of star players like Mikey Lewis, but they’re in the middle and in there.
“You could see why the club has given them [Dean Hadley] an extension. They’re the players you want in your team.”
Hull KR could clinch their first-ever League Leaders’ Shield this weekend – but they’ll need St Helens to beat Wigan on Friday night, and to overcome rivals Hull FC on Sunday.