Matt Parcell's departure from Hull Kingston Rovers at the end of the year to return to Australia for family reasons has been announced by the club - with the hooker admitting "mixed emotions" about going, saying "the opportunity to stay at Hull KR was not an option". Parcell, who is due to speak to the media later today, spoke about the bonds he has formed and memories made in Britain. He has been a highly impressive performer for Rovers this season on the way to them challenging for a minimum top-two finish, with the Grand Final looking a realistic target.
Since scoring a match-winning try on his Hull KR debut against Hull FC in June 2019, after signing from Leeds Rhinos, he has gone on to make 118 appearances in total. In a statement announcing the news, Parcell said: "‘Firstly, I’d just like to thank the fans and supporters for the appreciation I’ve received at Hull KR and since arriving in the UK. "I have truly loved my time in England, and it has been the best experience filled with incredible people and wonderful memories.
We also welcomed our beautiful daughter, Sadie, and became British citizens—milestones that will forever be special. "I also want to thank my wife, Steph, for your love and support. I’m not exactly sure when we first moved over that she envisioned that we would still be here 8 years later but she has been an absolute star and we have friendships and memories for life.
"But after eight seasons in the Super League, we feel that now is the righ.