Batley star Alex Bretherton calls time on 15-year career

Batley forward Alex Bretherton has announced his retirement from rugby league with immediate effect.

The 36-year-old has made 333 appearances during a 15-year long career, scoring 80 tries.

Bretherton spent the first six years of his career at Dewsbury before switching Heavy Woollen clubs to then play nine seasons at the Bulldogs.

He said: “It’s a bit surreal. Not being around the lads will be a massive loss but all good things come to an end.

“The overriding emotion is that I got to represent this club and play at this level.

“Now it is time to be a dad. I love this club and it will always have a special place in my heart but I have three young kids and they’ll take up my time now. It’s time to support Jenny like she’s supported me.”

Batley chairman Kevin Nicholas added: “It will be strange not to have him with us on matchdays but hopefully we’ll see plenty of him along with Jenny, the kids and their families. They’ve become a big part of Batley Bulldogs.”

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