Championship Preview: Batley v Hunslet

Danny Maun and Greg Johnson are both available for Batley Bulldogs after recent injuries, but Paul Mennell (leg) is ruled out.

Last week Batley were forced to postpone their match with Swinton Lions, but club officials are confident Friday’s Kingstone Press Championship fixture with Hunslet Hawks will get the go ahead.

Callum Windley and Luke Helliwell could both feature for Hunslet, while Stuart Kain is also closing in on a return to action.

However, Liam Hood looks set to remain sidelined for another fortnight.

Hawks coach Barry Eaton said: “John Kear has taken Batley to another level, and they’re certainly one of the top four sides in the competition.

“However, we’ve got to go there and keep trying to improve ourselves.

“We’re certainly in a better position and state of mind than we were last year.

“What’s been pleasing is the fact that so far players that were with us last year and showed raw potential are starting to realise that potential and be a little bit more consistent.”