Batley confirm new coach for 2024 following Craig Lingard’s new appointment

Batley assistant Mark Moxon will step up to the role of head coach for the 2024 season following Craig Lingard’s appointment as Castleford’s assistant coach. 

Lingard, 45, joins Super League outfit on a two-and-a-half-year deal effective immediately alongside Andy Last, but will combine his two roles until the end of 2023.

Across his three years in charge of the club, Lingard guided the side to a play-off semi final in 2021 before defeating the odds by beating Featherstone in 2022 for a spot in the Championship Grand Final, losing 44-12 to Leigh at the Leigh Sports Village.

Lingard’s side currently sit sixth in the Championship table, with six wins from 10, and Castleford have agreed that any potential game day clashes will see Batley take priority.

Mark Moxon to lead Batley in 2024

Batley chairman Kevin Nicholas has confirmed that Moxon will then step up as head coach in 2024 as the club look for continuity with the appointment.

Chairman Nicholas said: “Obviously we don’t want to lose Craig but at the same time we’re delighted to see him progress and move onto Super League.

“The work done by the current backroom staff over recent years has been fantastic.

“We believe continuity is crucial and that’s why we have had no hesitation in asking Mark Moxon, who has been outstanding as assistant here at The Fox’s Biscuits Stadium for over a decade and is fully committed to the ethos and spirit of the club, to take over as head coach next season.”

Lingard on new appointment

Lingard joins recently appointed Castleford head coach Last at the The Jungle, with his first game this Friday as the Tigers host Catalans in Round 12.

As a player, Lingard played 205 times for Batley, becoming their all-time leading try scorer with 142. 

“I am really pleased,” said Lingard.

“It’s been good to get down and get my first day out of the way. It has been a really good day because everyone has been really welcoming and it’s been good to get out on that field for that first session.

“It has been good to get straight out there on the field and get some drills done and watch the boys in action.

“It’s an exciting time for me and an exciting time for the club over the next few years.”

FULL STORY: Batley coach Craig Lingard to combine role as new Castleford assistant

FOLLOW: Keep up with all the latest on the Love Rugby League mobile app