BIRMINGHAM HURRICANES boss Mark Dunning says it’s third time lucky after bringing loose-forward Eddie Battye to the second-city club.

The man from Barnsley who first played for Sheffield Eagles before really making his name at London Broncos has been on the Hurricanes coach’s wanted list since late 2024.

Dunning explained: “Eddie is a player we have attempted to recruit for the last two seasons but unfortunately were unable to get it done.

“To finally have him on board at the third attempt is great, and I’m sure he will get our supporters excited.”

Battye, who had two spells at Sheffield and featured in Super League for Wakefield Trinity as well as London, this year played for Hunslet, making 26 appearances.

The Huddersfield-based player has turned out in more than 340 games in all, and Dunning added: “Eddie is a big, strong man, who has been there, seen it and done it at this level and Super League.

“His leadership and experience will be great for our squad, and he will bring a point of difference to our middle unit with his detail and skill as well as his size and strength.”

Birmingham have rebranded after as Midlands Hurricanes, finishing eighth and making the second stage of the play-offs this year.

“It’s an exciting time for the club, and I’m looking forward to being part of the journey,” said Battye.

“The team had a successful season, and I’m hoping to bring my experience to help drive standards and build on the foundations already in place.

“The aim is to keep improving as a group and put ourselves in a strong position to be a real force in the play-offs.”

Birmingham had previously confirmed the retention of backs Aidan McGowan and Luis Roberts.