James Batchelor “really happy” to have his future sorted
James Batchelor in action for Wakefield
Wakefield forward James Batchelor has signed a new one-year deal with the club.
The 23-year-old back-rower or loose forward has made more than 70 appearances for Trinity since making his first team debut back in 2016. He played for England Knights in 2018.
James Batchelor said: “I’m really happy to be staying at the club.
“The team were playing really well at the back end of the year and I was starting to play more regular rugby, so I’m really happy to be here for 2022.
“My first goal is to try and nail down a starting spot and be really important to the team whilst playing consistently well every week.
“The deal didn’t come around until pretty late, so I would say my form towards the back end of the year was a big factor in it and I just want to kick on now.”
Wakefield coach Willie Poching said: “It is great for us to keep our homegrown talent.
“Batch is extremely professional and strives to be the best he can, and that’s the type of player we are after.
“He has his best years ahead of him and we look forward to him being with us through that time.”
James Batchelor stays, Kyle Wood departs
Meanwhile, Kyle Wood has left Wakefield upon the expiry of his contract.
The 32-year-old scored 26 tries in 165 games for Wakefield across two spells at Belle Vue.
Wakefield chief executive Michael Carter said: “Kyle has been outstanding in his two spells at the club.
“He has been a hugely popular figure within the club and departs to pastures new with all our very best wishes.
“Unfortunately, it’s probably a consequence of the challenging financial situation that has left us not able to offer Kyle an extension. I wish him and family all the very best.”
Kyle Wood has attracted interest from several Championship clubs for next season, but Halifax are the frontrunners to sign the experienced hooker, according to Yorkshire Live who reported it last month.
The Castleford-born dummy half has made more than 300 career appearances for Doncaster, Sheffield, Huddersfield, Batley, Castleford and Wakefield.