We can confirm that following discussions with the Midlands Hurricanes coaching staff, second-rower Josh Jordan-Roberts has made the difficult decision to announce his retirement from professional rugby league with immediate effect.
Josh, 27, made just under 150 professional career appearances over 10 seasons at Super League, Championship and League One level. His career started at Leeds Rhinos and saw him make his professional debut at just 18 years old during their 37-12 win over Leigh Centurions. He would spend time on loan at Bradford Bulls (2017) and Hunslet (2018) before leaving the Rhinos to sign with then-League One side York Knights in the summer of 2018 as he helped them secure promotion to the Betfred Championship. He would spend another two seasons at York before making the switch to League One side Rochdale Hornets for the 2021 campaign.
As fans will know, Bob joined the Hurricanes during the 2025 pre-season and was given the #12 shirt ahead of his debut. He would make his first appearances for the club during our historic Challenge Cup Third Round clash with Salford Red Devils, where he would unfortunately suffer an injury during the first-half. Josh would return to action during our 6-54 away win over Newcastle Thunder (Round 4) and would go on to make ten further appearances for the club as we retained our best ever league position and secured our best ever points tally in the professional game.
As announced last month, the club exercised an option in Josh’s contract that would have seen him remain a Cane until at least the end of the 2026 season. However, Josh has since spoken to the club regarding the impact of a long-standing knee problem and his decision to take time away from the game to focus on his health and look ahead to a new chapter of his life following his marriage to his long-time partner Brooke.
Speaking with CanesTV, Josh had this to say on his decision to retire:
“I feel very privileged to have played our wonderful game for such a long period of time. It’s something I don’t take for granted at all. I had achieved what I set out to do when I first picked up a rugby ball at aged 4 and that was to be able to play at the highest level I can for as long as I can.
I’ve always had in the back of my mind that I wanted to retire on my own terms and that’s what I’ve been able to do. The next chapter in my life is a very exciting one and one I look forward too.
I feel very fortunate to have learnt from some of the best coaches in the game and shared the field with some of the most talented players.
So to those players who have shared a field with me – thank you. To those coaches who’ve impacted my journey – thank you. I come away from Rugby League with countless memories and that’s something I’ll cherish forever.“
“The news that “Bob” has decided to step away from the game is certainly bitter sweet. Bitter because he was a valuable member of the squad but sweet because he gets to do it on his terms having fulfilled his childhood dreams.
When we initially spoke and he informed me of his intentions it was a surprise but following numerous chats since it’s clear that he’s comfortable and content with his decision. Having recently tied the knot with Brooke now is the right time for him to enjoy life away from Rugby and concentrate on his family.Although he’s only been with us for 12 months he’s made an impact on the team and the club with his professional and competitive nature and spirit.We thank him for his contributions to the canes and wish him all the very best with what is next, he will always be welcome at our club.“
