Mason cleared for Hull KR debut

Mason has not yet procured his Tongan passport (GETTY IMAGES)

Hull KR have temporarily de-registered their Australian scrum-half, Michael Dobson, so that Willie Mason can make his debut on Sunday. Mason has not yet procured his Tongan passport, so can only play on Rovers' overseas quota – which was full.

The club has cancelled the contract of Dobson, who is out with a knee injury. By the time he is fit, Mason should have his passport, leaving the quota place open for Dobson. He is now a certainly to play against Crusaders on Sunday, especially given that captain Michael Vella will be out of action for up to six weeks for knee surgery.