There's a couple of things you could check for (not specific to rovers but apply to nearly every modern diesel engine).

If you have access to a scanner, check for RPM signal as if this is not present, it won't fire the injectors or switch on the fuel pump during cranking.

If it has the function on the scanner, go into the reading for the fuel pressure. Check this with the engine cranking. A lot of diesels won't switch on the injectors until the pressure is above approximately 300 bar () of pressure! If the pressure is low or non existant, could indicate the lift pump isn't working as it should or the high pressure mechanical pump is worn.