Hull KR’s head coach, Willie Peters, explained that his choice to leave Mikey Lewis out of the squad for Saturday’s clash with Toulouse was driven by a commitment to the club’s "standards" rather than a simple tactical decision. Lewis had just received a two‑match suspension after being charged with a Grade C offence for "dangerous contact" in the rearranged round‑two game against Warrington Wolves on Tuesday.
During that incident, Lewis’s studs struck the ankle of Warrington’s Ewan Irwin as Irwin was kicking the ball, leaving Irwin with a potential injury that now requires scanning. The suspension arrives at a particularly sensitive time for the 25‑year‑old, who had only recently returned from a four‑match ban imposed for a head‑butt during Hull KR’s previous encounter with Warrington. Peters also highlighted the situation of teammate Tevita Pangai‑Jr, who is facing a four‑match ban after being cited three times for "late contact with a passer" in the same fixture. That sanction could effectively end Pangai‑Jr’s stint with the Robins, who signed him mid‑season.
Although the disciplinary panel has already handed down the penalties, the bans will not be activated until Round 25, meaning both Lewis and Pangai‑Jr were technically eligible to play against Toulouse. Nevertheless, Peters opted to omit them, stating that the decision was about reinforcing a clear, club‑wide line on what behaviour will be tolerated, regardless of a player’s status or experience. "We have to uphold standards now and for the future of the club," Peters said.
"There must be a clear boundary on what we accept, no matter who you are." The coach’s remarks came against a backdrop of Hull KR’s disciplinary record. The club currently leads the Super League in disciplinary points, having accumulated more points than any other side and frequently seeing players forced to the sidelines because of suspensions. Peters argued that a lack of consequences encourages repeat offences. "When players get away with actions without any penalty, they keep doing it," he warned.
"We cannot allow that pattern to continue, especially when it costs the team on the field." He emphasized that the decision to sit Lewis and Pangai‑Jr was not about personal vendettas or a single incident, but about establishing a culture of accountability. "Sometimes there is no malice, but repeated infractions signal a problem," Peters explained.
"We chose to enforce consequences this week to send a message that certain behaviours will not be tolerated." Looking ahead, Peters believes that this firm stance will benefit the club both this season and in the long term. "If we maintain a high standard now, it will help us this year and, more importantly, it will shape the club’s future," he said. "When standards are upheld, everyone knows the expectations, and any breach will be met with appropriate action." While acknowledging the short‑term impact of missing key players, Peters conceded that Hull KR performs better with Lewis on the field, provided he aligns with the team’s expectations. "We are unquestionably a stronger side when Mikey is in the lineup," he affirmed, noting that Lewis’s defensive contributions have historically been a significant asset.
"In his first game back, he made many positive plays and showed a strong defensive impact." However, Peters also pointed out areas where Lewis still needs to improve. He said the coaching staff is in constant dialogue with the young halfback, offering support and guidance to refine his game. "Mikey is aware of the aspects he must work on, and we are committed to helping him develop those skills," Peters added.
"He will spend a few weeks on the sidelines, and we’ll monitor his progress. When he returns and adheres to the standards we set, the team will be even stronger." The broader context of the Super League this season includes a comprehensive broadcasting arrangement with Sky Sports, which will air every match live, offering two exclusive live games per round and additional coverage on Sky Sports+ for the remaining fixtures.
Hull KR’s supporters can follow the team’s progress through the latest league table, podcasts such as The Bench with Jenna and Jon, and ticket information available online. In summary, Willie Peters’ decision to leave Mikey Lewis and Tevita Pangai‑Jr out of the squad was a deliberate move to reinforce Hull KR’s disciplinary standards.
By prioritising accountability over short‑term convenience, the coach aims to cultivate a culture where all players understand the consequences of their actions, thereby safeguarding the club’s reputation and competitive edge for the present season and beyond. The earliest Lewis could return is the final round of the regular season, assuming he serves his suspension and meets the behavioural expectations set by the coaching staff.