Batley Bulldogs will this week formalise a dual-registration link with Leeds to allow their fringe players to feature in the Rhinos’ reserve team.
Bulldogs coach Craig Lingard (pictured) had been looking for a partnership with a Super League club to give his squad members some game time.
And the deal with Leeds has now been agreed in principle and is set to be formally signed off this week.
Lingard confirmed: “We’ll be sending the first-team players not in our 21-man squads there to get some game time and help bulk their squad out a bit.”
Among those is likely to be former triallists Sam Bowring and Dom Horn, who have both now penned permanent deals with the Bulldogs.
It could also offer the first route back into Rugby League for returning prop Tom Lillycrop, who is now training fully with Batley while continuing his commitments with Cleckheaton RUFC until at least the end of the month.
Lingard is also hoping to this week complete the signing of a Super League prop on a month’s loan to bolster his front row options.
Tyler Dickinson, James Brown and Joe Taira are all dealing with minor injuries at present to stretch Lingard’s resources.
And he has also confirmed the departure of winger Niall Walker, who has relocated down south.
Lingard explained: “I met with Niall on Wednesday night to finalise everything.
“He’s got a job down south and is looking at trying to secure a club down there somewhere to continue his career.
“He moves down with our blessing and I hope it works out for him in future.”
