Newcomers fitting in well with established players says Batley Bulldogs boss James Ford

​The Bulldogs have refreshed their squad for 2026 under their new head coach and Ford is pleased with the integration going on between the newcomers and the well established Batley boys.

He said: “They look really connected and I’m really pleased about that.

"People often talk about the team spirit at Batley and with a lot of players leaving it was a little bit of a concern, but the new lads have come in and brought some youthful exuberism, lots of energy to us and seem to have connected really well.

"Communication in and around training is good and they are doing stuff off the field together as well so I’m really pleased.”

On how pre-season is going, Ford explained: "I think they are all working hard and I’ve been blown away by the work ethic.

"The lads work hard in the gym and indoor skill and contact they are going after. I’m impressed by the appetite for hard work and learning on the field.

"I’ve got no complaints and if you had to push me really hard to pick one out I’d probably go with Leaky.

"He’s tremendously fit, obviously very skilful, really intelligent and with communication really leads the boys well.

"I’ve coached against Leaky, but now I’m working with him I realise he’s an even better player than I thought.”

Alistair Leak has been named as co-captain with another of Batley’s experienced players, Dane Manning, with Ford explaining his decision.

He added: “There were others we considered and we have a leadership group behind our captains. But Leaky is the obvious and outstanding candidate to lead this team and Dane Manning as well.

"Leaders can lead in different ways and there’s not many people wouldn’t follow Dane over the top of a trench. If he says I’m going you’re coming with me you’d go with him.

"I want him to be Dane Manning and I know that will inspire the others.”