Double injury blow for Red and Whites’ star man Batchelor
HULL KR are waiting to discover the extent of James Batchelor’s injury – with Willie Peters discovering he has suffered an additional blow.
The back rower came off during the club’s victory over Huddersfield Giants due a tight hamstring.
But Peters has confirmed that Batchelor also suffered an ankle injury, which has now emerged as the more serious of the two setbacks. As a result, he will miss Thursday’s game with Castleford Tigers.
Rovers had already accepted that a short turnaround would probably prove too soon for the 26-year-old, now, they’re hopeful that he won’t miss any further action.
“He came off with a hamstring, but he had an ankle issue as well that he did earlier in the game,” Peters revealed.
“That’s probably the main one. He’s got scans today, so we’ll know a little more around that. He’s a massive part of our team, he’s in our leadership group.
“He’s been an important part while I’ve been here. Whenever he plays, he’s the type of player when you’re in the dressing room and the players see him lacing his boots up, it gives them more confidence, and it does me as well.
“It’s a loss, but it’s certainly an opportunity for someone else.
“We know that, unfortunately, injuries and suspensions happen, it’s part of the game at times. We need to adjust and we’ll do that.”
In more promising news, Joe Burgess is available for selection after missing the last three games, though he will have to dislodge one of Tom Opacic or Jack Broadbent after they found some form in his absence.
Peters added: “He’ll be eligible for selection, he’s been training well the last couple of weeks.”