New Rovers deal for Welham

Hull KR have received a boost on the eve of the new season with highly-rated centre Kris Welham committing his future to the club.

The 24-year-old's contract was due to expire at the end of the new season but he has signed a three-year extension which will keep at MS3 Craven Park until the end of 2015.

Welham, a proud product of the Robins' youth system, has scored 63 tries in 102 appearances since making his debut in a National League fixture at Leigh in August 2006.

His 26 tries in 31 games last season, which made him the most prolific centre in Super League, earned him a place in the England Knights squad and brought him to the attention of Leeds.

Rovers coach Craig Sandercock, whose side kick off the new season at Leeds on Friday, said: "It is great news for the club and our supporters that Kris has extended his contract with us.

"He is a class player who I believe will play for his country. Even better though, Kris is a quality person who is a thorough professional, trains hard and is willing to learn."

Welham said: "It's great to have it all done and I'm just concentrating on playing rugby now.

"There were other clubs showing an interest but Hull KR was always the place that I wanted to be at. I've grown up here and the only reason I would have left was if the club didn't want me."