Hull KR Captain leaves on "Compassionate Grounds"

Hull Kingston Rovers captain Joel Tomkins has been released by the club on compassionate grounds.

The second-rower joined the Robins in June 2018 from Wigan Warriors, and signed an extension until the end of 2021.

Tomkins took over as skipper this season from Shaun Lunt, and played a big role in the second successive survival season.

The 32-year-old, who scored six tries in 35 appearances, had two years left to run on his contract.

The shock announcement comes five days after the Super League club secured their top-flight status.

Tomkins, who missed the Robins' last match through suspension, becomes the seventh player to leave the club as Smith prepares to rebuild the team.

Danny McGuire has retired to take up an off-field role with the club.

Also departing Craven Park are Josh Drinkwater, Chris Atkin, James Greenwood, Ryan Shaw, and Danny Addy.

Dean Hadley and Jez Litten are the only confirmed signings for next year, although the club are thought to have lined up a host of new faces, including former New Zealand international Shaun Kenny-Dowall.