Battye earns new Sheffield deal

Sheffield have handed a new one-year deal to prop Eddie Battye.

Battye, 22, came through the club’s development pathway, and made his debut back in 2008.

He made seven appearances before heading to French Championship side Villeneuve Leopards last season, and then returning to the Eagles where he has become a first team regular.

Coach Mark Aston said: “It’s great Eddie has signed this new deal and committed to the club.

“He’s a strong and hard hitting prop, has hunger and desire and has been in great form this year.

“Going to play a season in the French Competition gave Eddie much needed game time at a competitive and good quality level and hasn’t looked out of place since returning.

“We pride ourselves on the excellent Youth Development and systems we have in place here and it’s great Eddie has cemented his first team place along with Cory Aston, Lee Sanders and Connor Scott all making appearances for the first team this year.”

Battye is set to line-up for Sheffield in the Championship Grand Final against Batley on Sunday.

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed my Rugby since returning from France. Playing in the Northern Rail Cup final and the Challenge Cup Quarter Final have been really highlights.”

“I can’t wait for Sunday, should Mark picked me, and it would be great to help the boys lift the Championship Trophy.”