The 48-year-old World Cup winner has sent a message to KR fans
New Hull KR head coach Nathan Cayless
Hull KR’s next head coach Nathan Cayless has declared himself honoured to be taking the reins at Craven Park as he set out his ambitions for the role.
The 48-year-old World Cup-winning New Zealand forward and one-club player with Parramatta Eels, will take over from the departing Willie Peters having agreed a three-year deal which runs until the conclusion of the 2029 Super League season.
Cayless will join the Robins immediately after his commitment as New Zealand assistant coach at this year’s World Cup ends, with the current Parramatta assistant coach excited to get started in his first position as head coach.
Starting with a direct message to Rovers fans, Cayless said; “I’d like the Hull KR supporters to know that I am honoured to become the next head coach of their rugby league club.
“I’m looking forward to serving the club, its players and wider community, and building on the culture of sustained excellence and success both on and off the field.”
Serving the club and the community is a key aspect of the role, with Peters having worked hard alongside staff at the club to rebuild the connection between the players, the club and the community they serve. A key part of the rigorous applicant process that saw no fewer than 15 coaches interviewed, Cayless’ approach married closely with Peters’ to enable Rovers to have, in that regard at least, a continuity if approach.
It is a fact not lost on Cayless, who believes this move to Super League is the right one for him due to that alignment of beliefs in how to approach the position. He added; “Hull KR is the right coaching opportunity for me and I am grateful.
“I’ve been coaching Rugby League within NRL systems since 2014, starting in pathways and development, moving through to Head Coach of NSW Cup, NRL assistant coach roles and as an international assistant coach with the New Zealand Kiwis. My rugby league coaching philosophy aligns with the hardworking, successful culture that exists at Hull KR.
“When CEO Paul Lakin and I first spoke, we connected immediately via our alignment on the vision and philosophies required to produce sustained success on and off the field. The club’s clarity in sharing the journey to where it is today was integral to my understanding of the professionalism, structure, and strong leadership within the club.”
Due to his current commitments and the respect for the job Peters is still doing, Cayless will keep his focus for now on matters in Australia, but will no doubt still be involved in any recruitment decisions taken here on in. With little room to move on the salary cap and with the majority of the squad already locked in for next season baring the last key decision surrounding Sauaso Sue, Cayless already knows the side he will have to work with next season and it’s one that he says excites him.
“The supporters can expect to see a group of players that continually put the team and club first, chase constant improvement, and execute the fundamentals of the game at the highest of standards consistently,” added Cayless, describing what fans can expect to see in 2027.
“My leadership journey began at the age of 21 when I was appointed Captain of the Parramatta Eels NRL team. Throughout my playing career I developed values of honesty, integrity and hard work. These values have transferred into my coaching, as they are values of action, do what you say you will do and always do your best no matter what.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to lead this exceptionally talented group. What I can see is evidence of a group of Rugby League players, coaches and staff that are willing to put the team first and do the little things well for their teammates on a consistent basis.”