Fash is celebrating a year-long testimonial in 2026.
Brad Fash has given a straight-up verdict on Hull FC’s recruitment for 2026, and he believes that the squad will be better handled to deal with whatever is thrown at them next season.
The Black and Whites have prioritised adding depth and competition to their ranks after an injury-hit year, with recruitment centred as such. That has seen eight players arrive, with Jake Arthur, Connor Bailey, Joe Batchelor, James Bell, Harvie Hill, Sam Lisone, Joe Phillips, and Arthur Romano all added to John Cartwright’s squad.
Creating a bulkier unit, Fash is now backing Hull to go one better than 2025 and secure a play-off position. The side finished seventh last season, just missing out on the top six, and now are now targeting the next level in an increased 14-team competition after what was still, all things considered, a much-improved year.
“We’ve recruited really well,” Fash, speaking at his testimonial launch dinner on Sunday, said: “We’ve made some good signings. The club have certainly spent a bit of money and we’ve signed some good players.
“I think we’ve got a squad now of around 28-29 players who can all come in and do a job at this level. There’s certainly more depth and competition, which is only good for all players.
“We’re looking good and it’s looking like John’s squad now with players that he wants. I think it’s going to be a good year and I think it will be a better year than last year.”
Fash is celebrating a year-long testimonial after debuting for Hull against Castleford back in 2015. The prop forward reached his 200th career appearance back in the summer and will take on some fresh challenges in the next few weeks, including a singing competition.
“We’ve got an Xmas factor next month,” Fash said. “A few of the boys will be doing a duet. I’ll be doing a solo. Then we’ve got my testimonial game in the new year. I’m looking forward to it. It should be good.”
Brad’s Xmas Factor takes place at the University of Hull’s Middleton Hall on Friday 12 December as players battle to be crowned Hull FC’s Christmas Number One. Tickets can be purchased for just £10. Doors open at 6pm for a 7pm start.
Meanwhile, Fash’s testimonial game will be against Super League opposition in January. The club have already confirmed one pre-season game at Wigan Warriors on Sunday 1 February.
The competitive season then begins with Challenge Cup action on the weekend of February 6/7. Super League then begins the following weekend.