HUNSLET have Lee Gaskell on board for next season – and coach Kyle Trout says the experienced stand-off is key to the up-tempo and unorthodox style he will carry on promoting.

While versatile back Jimmy Watson, 34, is stepping down as a player but joining the coaching staff and seasoned former France forward Kevin Larroyer, 37, is leaving the Leeds side, former Super League operator Gaskell, 35, has agreed a contract extension for 2027.

And with Billy Jowitt about to follow suit, it means Trout has his two main halfbacks tied down as he aims to build on the progress made this season.

Gaskell recorded his 300th career appearance (43 for St Helens, two for Rochdale Hornets (dual registration), 18 on loan for Salford (then City Reds), 95 for Huddersfield Giants, 24 for Wakefield Trinity, 80 for Bradford Bulls and 38 for Hunslet) in the 28-18 home win over Rochdale which closed his club’s 2026 campaign, and Trout’s first full season at the helm.

The 35-year-old boss has himself agreed terms for next season, and he’s looking forward to having Gaskell as one of his key on-field leaders.

“Lee has always been a very good player, and he suits the free-rein style we like to use because he has that vision as well as experience,” said Trout.

“Our approach needs reliable on-field orchestrators, and while he’s never been a high-volume type, he’s developed more of a voice.

“There’s no ego about him either, so when he speaks, the rest of the boys listen.”

Former Bradford player Jowitt, 25, returned from injury to face Rochdale, when Hunslet made it eight wins from 24 in the merged second tier after finishing bottom of the Championship last year.

“I understand sport is results-driven, but taking everything into account, I think we have made progress,” added Trout.