Hull Kingston Rovers are the World Club Challenge champions after a thrilling 30-24 victory over the Brisbane Broncos at the MKM Stadium on Thursday night. The win marks a significant moment for English rugby league, with Hull KR becoming the sixth English club to lift the title and the first to simultaneously hold the Challenge Cup, League Leaders’ Shield, and Super League Grand Final trophies – a feat not achieved since Wigan in 2024. The atmosphere at the stadium, which held a crowd of 24,600, was electric as the Robins overcame a strong challenge from the NRL Premiers.
The match saw a dominant first-half performance from Hull KR, racing to an 18-4 lead. While Brisbane mounted a spirited comeback in the second half, scoring 20 unanswered points to create a tense finale, Hull KR held on to secure the historic win. The victory was particularly sweet for players like Jez Litten and Dean Hadley, who both previously played for Hull FC before switching to the east side of the city seven years ago. Their return to the MKM Stadium proved pivotal in the team’s success.
Litten Credits Hadley’s Performance Despite Injury
Jez Litten, who was named player of the match by Sky Sports for his two try assists, immediately deflected praise, highlighting the incredible performance of Dean Hadley. Litten told BBC Radio Humberside, “I thought the man of the match was Dean Hadley. I did my bit for the boys, but he was unbelievable, doing a Dean Hadley performance – with busted ribs as well.” He continued, “I thought he was man of the match, but all of the boys dug deep and it’s just a pleasure to be part of this team and I love playing for this club.”
Hadley played the full 80 minutes in the second row despite suffering from broken ribs, demonstrating a remarkable level of commitment and resilience. This dedication resonated throughout the team and contributed significantly to their ability to withstand Brisbane’s late surge.
Walsh Nightmares and a Tense Finish
The build-up to the match wasn’t without its anxieties for Hull KR’s hooker, Jez Litten. He revealed to BBC Sport that he “had nightmares about Reece Walsh” in the week leading up to the World Club Challenge. Walsh, Brisbane’s full-back, proved a formidable opponent, but ultimately Hull KR’s defense and strategic play prevailed.
Litten described the game as a hard-fought battle, stating, “The boys turned up against a team like Brisbane and we knew we had a big job on our hands but we just scrambled together and got the win.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by Walsh, adding, “I’ve been off all week ill, I’ve been having nightmares about Reece Walsh, and they all came true tonight. When you’ve got someone like him coming out the back, credit to the boys who were helping me out.”
A Historic Achievement for Hull KR and English Rugby League
Hull KR’s victory is not only a triumph for the club but also a significant achievement for English rugby league. They are now the fourth team to hold all four major honors simultaneously in the summer era, following in the footsteps of Wigan in 2024 and St Helens in 2006-07. The win comes after a dominant 2025 season where they secured the treble of Challenge Cup, League Leaders’ Shield, and Super League Grand Final.
🏆 WORLD CLUB CHAMPIONS! 🏆
What a night for Hull KR! 🙌
Relive all the action from our historic victory over Brisbane Broncos ⬇️
— Hull Kingston Rovers 🔴⚪️ (@hullkrfc) February 19, 2026
The decision to switch the match to the MKM Stadium, the home ground of their cross-city rivals Hull FC, was made to maximize attendance, and the move proved successful, drawing a crowd more than double the capacity of Hull KR’s usual home, Sewell Group Craven Park.
Looking Ahead
Hull KR’s focus now shifts back to the Super League season. After an uncharacteristic loss to York Knights last week, this World Club Challenge win will undoubtedly provide a significant boost in confidence and momentum. The team will be looking to build on this success and continue their dominance in the league. The club has not announced any immediate plans beyond the continuation of the Super League season, but fans will be eager to see how they can maintain their winning form and potentially add more silverware to their collection.
The victory over Brisbane Broncos is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of the entire Hull KR squad and coaching staff. It’s a moment that will be remembered fondly by fans for years to come and a proud day for English rugby league.
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