Hull FC is getting ready for a new chapter. With a clear strategy to refresh the squad, the Black and Whites have secured some strong additions and confirmed a few departures. Here’s a fan-friendly breakdown of what’s going on, who’s coming in, who’s leaving, and what to expect.
🔄 Departures: Saying Goodbye to Some Familiar Faces
Hull have this week announced several end-of-season departures:
- Will Gardiner
- Jordan Lane
- Jordan Rapana
These players will be leaving the club at the end of the season. Their contributions will be remembered by fans—Rapana in particular has had a strong impact during his time. The club now turns its attention to refresh and rebound. (Original story via Rugby League Zone: Hull and St Helens confirm end-of-season departures.)
✔️ New Signings: Bringing in Experience & Youth
Hull FC have been active in the recruitment market. Three confirmed signings stand out, each bringing different strengths and expectations.
| Player | Age | From | Contract Length | What They Bring |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| James Bell | 31 | St Helens | Until end of 2028 | A versatile forward who can play loose-forward and back row. Physical in defence, solid experience, and strong ball-handling. Adds grit and leadership. |
| Joe Batchelor | 30 | St Helens | Until end of 2028 | A tough back rower with good work rate. Knows Super League well, consistent performer. Helps bolster the middle and brings energy. |
| Harvie Hill | 22 | Wigan Warriors | Until end of 2029 | One for the future. Big prop, raw but with promise. Already has 50+ senior appearances, experience with loans, and the hunger to develop. Will make up part of Hull’s forward pack and help bring youthful strength. |
🧐 Quick Facts: What Every Hull Fan Should Know
- James Bell
- Born in Auckland, New Zealand; qualifies for Scotland.
- Known for his physicality and versatility in both back-row and loose forward roles.
- Was key in several big Saints successes, including the World Club Challenge and title pushes.
- Joe Batchelor
- From Wakefield, England. Strong in defence, solid meter-making.
- Developed through York City Knights and others, then made his name at St Helens.
- Harvie Hill
- Born September 2003 (so still early in his career).
- Has already had senior games, loan experiences (London Broncos, Toulouse Olympique) and been recognized in Wigan’s academy ranks.
- Physique: large prop with size and potential to grow. Mixed experience but plenty of promise.
🔮 What This Means Going Forward
For fans, this feels like a deliberate shift: combining experience with youth, strengthening the middle, and preparing for the long haul.
- The departures free up some cap room and squad spots. Losing Rapana, Gardiner, Lane means gaps to fill, especially in attack and on the wing (Rapana) and bench depth.
- The signings are doing more than just plugging holes. Bell and Batchelor bring Super League-rigour and know-how; Hill represents investment in the future.
- The contract lengths are significant: agreeing deals up to 2028 and 2029 shows the club is thinking medium term, not just short bursts.
🎯 What to Watch
- How quickly Bell and Batchelor embed into the squad. Chemistry with current forwards, fitness, and how they perform under pressure will matter.
- Harvie Hill’s development—can he step up, stay fit, and add real value? Will Hull manage his minutes well?
- Replacements for departing players, especially what happens out wide after Rapana leaves. Who comes through, sign or promote?
🗣 Fan Perspective: Optimism With A Side of Caution
There’s reason for optimism. The club is clearly acting, planning forward, mixing youth and experience. However, transitions always carry risk. New signings need time, injuries happen, and performances will be under scrutiny.
But overall: this feels like a move in the right direction. It’s more than just filling spots—it’s shaping a squad that might have staying power.
