Featherstone Rovers have announced that Papua New Guinea international McKenzie Yei and club captain James Lockwood have signed with the club for the 2023 Betfred Championship season.
Highly-rated prop forward Yei, who featured for PNG at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, arrives at the Millennium Stadium from Queensland Cup side Queensland Capra and will link up with Sean Long's squad in the New Year.
Commenting on the acquisition, Long commented: “I’m really pleased that we’ve secured McKenzie’s signature, it’s a real coup for us. I’ve watched him over the last three years both at international and club level and he’ll add some real punch to our squad.”
The 25 year-old's produced a number of impressive performances at the recent World Cup, and is excited at the prospect of continuing this run of form for Rovers.
“I'm looking forward to a new career in the UK with a progressive Club like Featherstone Rovers," said Yei.
"I enjoyed playing in the UK during the World Cup and I was fortunate enough to meet the coach Sean Long. I'm excited to be working with him and carrying on a strong tradition of PNG players at Featherstone Rovers. I'm looking forward to working hard and playing my part in taking Featherstone Rovers to promotion to Super League in 2023 and I appreciate the opportunity to be part of this club.”
Rovers CEO Martin Vickers added: “I think McKenzie is the missing piece of the puzzle that we’ve been looking for, he was clearly a threat to opponents during the World Cup and I’m pleased we’ve been able to land his signature. I have to highlight the fact that this signing has only been possible because of the immense show of support we’ve received from Featherstone supporters, be that through Membership purchases or retail purchases, the dedication of our fans never ceases to amaze me, thank you.”
Featherstone have also announced the retention of Club Captain James Lockwood. The experienced prop has signed on for another year and is excited to work under Long in 2023.
Lockwood commented: “I’m really pleased to be staying on for another season, I’m excited at the prospect of playing under Sean once again. I’ve worked hard on my fitness over the off season and feel as fit and ready as I ever have. We were disappointed as a squad with the way we ended last season and I want to be part of putting that right.”
