Cas loan duo to Batley

Castleford Tigers pair Will Maher and Tom Holmes will spend the 2017 season on loan with Batley Bulldogs.

Maher and Holmes, both 20 years old, will be on a season long loan for the 2017 season, with a call back option should injuries occur.

Tigers head coach Daryl Powell said: “On the back of last season I’m pleased to say we have a relationship with Batley Bulldogs again which enabled Greg Minikin to do such a great job when he came back into our first team last season.

“This season Tom Holmes and Will Maher will be playing with Batley on a full season loan.

“Both of these players have Super League experience and I’m confident both Batley and the players will benefit greatly from this deal.

“I know Batley’s head coach Matt Diskin personally and know the players will receive outstanding coaching within Batley’s environment while still working full time with our staff.”

Tigers CEO Steve Gill looks forward to watching his players develop: “We are very happy to continue our dual registered partnership with the Batley Bulldogs for the 2017 season.

“Batley are a great club that share a lot of our values. Both Tom Holmes and Will Maher will be joining them on season long loans, although the club will have a call back clause in case of injuries.

“Playing at this level week in week out will no doubt help both players in their development, and I’m sure they will represent Castleford Tigers at the highest standard.” 

Bulldogs’ Chief Executive Paul Harrison said: “We’re delighted to be once again working with Castleford Tigers. When players come to Batley we want them to feel part of our squad and our club and so a season long deal is fantastic for us.

“We’re confident Will and Tom will make a huge impact here and we’ll do everything we can to assist Castleford in their development.”