Why Cummins is a key cog in Hull's plans for Australia

Richard Tate and Gareth Ellis fronted Hull FC's media briefing last week as the club's 2027 Academy Tour to Australia was revealed, but for the modest duo, there's a key cog lurking in the backdrop: Francis Cummins.

- By DAN TOMLINSON

Joining the club for the 2024 season, Cummins has dived headfirst into all things Black and White.

He took on the academy and reserves coaching roles last year, and when Tony Smith departed the club last April, he stepped up alongside Simon Grix to help with first-team matters.

Putting the club first, Cummins shares the long-term vision for youth development, something he is fully passionate about as the club prepares to embark on a three-week tour Down Under.

Explaining that passion, Tate said: "The experience Franny brings as a coach - he's a youth developer, and he's passionate about rugby league; that's the first and foremost, which is great, and his passion oozes into those young boys.

"You can see that in everything he does, from a video referee to a simple drill outside to his pre-match team talk.

"His enthusiasm is infectious around those young boys.