James Batchelor requires scans on a throat injury that could sideline the back-rower for up to six weeks, Hull KR head coach Willie Peters has revealed.
The 27-year-old has been a key figure in Rovers’ 2025 success so far, helping end their long wait for silverware and guiding the team to the top of the Super League table, four points ahead of reigning champions Wigan Warriors.
However, he is set for a stint on the sidelines with further scans required.
“Unfortunately, James Batchelor won’t play this week,” boss Peters revealed.
“He hurt his throat last week and he’s going to go to a specialist tomorrow to see how long he’s going to be out for. Once he’s seen the specialist, I’ll be able to give some more exact details.
“The timeframe is a bit grey at the moment, it could be two weeks but it could be up to six.
“I’m thinking it’s going to be less than six, but we need to make sure and get the experts to tell us what it is. It’s unfortunate for Batchelor and for us because he adds so much to this team.”
Meanwhile, Rhyse Martin could make his long-awaited return against Wakefield Trinity. The Papua New Guinea international underwent surgery on a thigh injury earlier in March and has been sidelined ever since.
But the 32-year-old could line up for Rovers this Friday at Sewell Group Craven Park in Super League Round 16.
“He’ll be named in the squad, and we’ll wait and see later in the week where he’s at,” Peters said of Martin, who recently returned to full training.
“When he’s back, if he’s right to play, we need to see what his minutes look like.
“He’s had a long process in terms of getting himself right, and now he’s ready to play, whether that be this week or next week.
“Whenever that is, we’ll look at whether he starts or comes off the interchange bench.”
Joe Burgess is in contention to mark his return for the first time since Wembley, while Michael McIlorum and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves are closing in on their returns.