Hull KR confirm signing of prop Dane Tilse from Canberra Raiders

Hull KR have bolstered their forward options with the signing of Australian prop Dane Tilse from Canberra Raiders.

The 30-year-old, who stands at 6ft 7in and weighs over 17 stone, has agreed a two-and-a-half year contract at the KC Lightstream Stadium and will replace the retired Mick Weyman, who he played with previously at Canberra.

Tilse told the Super League club's official website: "I’ve had a brief chat to Josh Hodgson (former KR hooker now with Canberra) and he spoke very highly of the club, as did Mick Weyman’s dad. I played with Mick at Canberra and his old man said how much he’d enjoyed it over there.

"It’s a different style of game in Super League, it’s not so much about the wrestle and defence like the NRL, so I’m looking forward to a fresh start.

"I’ve been at Canberra for 10 years now and it’s time for me to be taken out of my comfort zone, but I’m 30 years old, I’m an experienced player and I’m more than confident I can handle the change.

"I was already thinking of coming over to Super League next season, but this was too good an opportunity to turn down. Canberra have been really good with me, so hopefully I can play a couple more games here over the next few weeks and then get across to Hull KR."

Rovers head coach Chris Chester said: "It’s no secret that we’ve been short on numbers in the front row after the departures of Mick and Ryan Bailey and we wanted to strengthen in that area.

"Our forwards have coped very well in the circumstances but we’ve been scouring the market for props and we’re delighted to be bringing in someone of Dane’s calibre.

"He’s got a very good pedigree over in the NRL and he’s coming here in what should be the prime of his career for a front rower.

"We’re excited to see him take to the field for us and he’ll be a big part of the squad moving forwards. We’ve got to go through the necessary process regarding his visa, but we’re hopeful of having him on board in the next three to four weeks."