Kear goes with three captains

Batley coach John Kear has revealed they will run with three co-captains this season, headed by Welsh prop Byron Smith.

Smith will be supported by Kris Lythe and Danny Maun, currently enjoying his testimonial year.

Kear, who left Wakefield at the end of last season, takes charge of his first competitive game as Batley coach on Sunday, as they travel to Keighley in the Northern Rail Cup.

He said: “I think it’s important to stress that there are no vice captains at the club – we have three co-captains in the squad, and I’m running with all three this season.

“Being a captain isn’t just about matchday – it’s about how you apply yourself in training, at team meetings and how you offer your support to coaching staff and applying their strategy.  The appointments of Byron, Danny and Kris are a reward for their conduct and support – they have been receptive to my ideas and are very much at the forefront of creating the new Bulldog spirit at the club.”

Kear is likely to be without full back Ian Preece (hamstring) and prop Gareth Frodsham (rib) on Sunday through injury.