Sheffield Tigers swoop for title winner Troy Batchelor

Sheffield Tigers have moved quickly to start their 2021 team restructure with the signing of Premiership title winner Troy Batchelor.
Troy Batchelor. Photo: Quinn Rooney/Getty ImagesTroy Batchelor. Photo: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images
Troy Batchelor. Photo: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Aussie ace Batchelor was an integral part of Swindon's glorious 2019 team which swept the board of the league and cup double but they are taking a season out due to stadium redevelopment this year.

And with TruPlant Tigers looking to revamp their side through new regulations which mean the addition of a British youngster and the loss of Nicki Pedersen due to Polish League restrictions on other leagues, Batchelor fits the bill.

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The news does, however, mean Richard Lawson won't figure for the Owlerton side and is available to speak to other Premiership clubs.

Said Batchelor: "I'm delighted to get the call from Sheffield and pleased to be a part of their first season back in the top level.

"I'm just desperate to go racing again and this is a great boost for me because when Swindon first called me to say they wouldn't be racing this year I was seriously concerned I'd miss out.

"But everything has fallen into place with Sheffield and I can't wait to get some laps in around there, it's been a while since I rode there last and to be honest it was quite choppy back then but I know it's different now.

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"I've been online and taken a look at the impressive stadium facilities too, the place looks amazing and I can't believe they've been a second tier club for so long, they should be in the top division and I'm pleased they've made the move.

"I know how the team is shaping up and I'm excited by it, I certainly believe we have what it takes to present a major challenge in the league this year."

Batchelor, like everyone, is also keeping an eye on daily news bulletins and is optimistic about the British season taking place with crowds this summer.

"The vaccine rollout has been impressive so far although obviously we must all spare a thought for anyone who has lost a loved on during this pandemic," he said. "Speaking to Simon Stead (Tigers boss) he seems pretty confident that we are going racing this summer and I'm with him."

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Sheffield have already lost Nicki Pedersen and Todd Kurtz from the 2020 side and now Lawson, with Batchelor the first new signing.

Triple World Champion Pedersen said: "I have respect for and friendship with Simon Stead and Sheffield and I wish everyone all the best."