Monday 5 September 2016 20:45, UK
Hull KR have given Australian stand-off Maurice Blair permission to return home to attend the funeral of his brother, who died last week.
The former Penrith, Melbourne and Gold Coast utility player insisted on staying in the UK to play in Saturday's Super 8s Qualifiers match against Leigh but will miss this weekend's game against London Broncos.
Hull KR head of rugby Jamie Peacock said: "This is terrible news for 'Bobby' and his family and he has temporarily returned home to Australia with our condolences.
"Bobby received the tragic news last week but insisted on remaining in the country to play in Saturday's game against Leigh Centurions. That is a testament to his character and the dedication he has towards the club and his team-mates.
"However, it's important that he now returns home to Australia to be with his family. We wish him a safe trip and will be doing everything we can to pick up a vital win on Sunday in his absence."
Rovers need a win against the Broncos on Sunday after suffering a surprise 25-18 defeat to the Centurions, a result which puts them in danger of having to play in the crunch £1m match to determine the final make-up of Super League for 2017.
Hull KR say Blair, 31, will return in time to face Featherstone in their penultimate Super 8s match on Sunday September 18.
The club have yet to announce whether Blair's half-back partner Albert Kelly will be available for the game against London at Ealing.
