1. William Batten was an English professional rugby league footballer who played in the 1900s, 1910s and 1920s.
14 Facts About Billy Batten
1. 2.
Billy Batten is a member of the Hull FC, and Wakefield Trinity halls of fame.
3.
Billy Batten was born on 26 May 1889 in the mining village of Kinsley, near Fitzwilliam, in the West Riding of Yorkshire, England.
4.
Billy Batten's parents were James and Ann Batten, who both migrated to Yorkshire from North Wales.
5.
Billy Batten started his rugby career with Kinsley and Ackworth United before joining Hunslet at the age of 17.
6.
Billy Batten was a member of the first British touring team to travel to Australasia under the leadership of James Lomas in 1910.
7.
Billy Batten was selected to play during the tour against Australia, Australasia, and New Zealand.
8.
Billy Batten passed this trick on to his son Eric Batten, but the tactic was later outlawed because of its potential dangers.
9.
Billy Batten won caps for Great Britain while at Hunslet in 1908 against New Zealand, and Australia, in 1909 against Australia.
10.
Billy Batten declined the opportunity to tour again with Britain in 1914 for "business reasons".
11.
Billy Batten signed for Wakefield Trinity in May 1924, he made his debut during August 1924, playing in 79 games over the next couple of years, scoring six tries and kicking two goals.
12.
Billy Batten continued his representative rugby career, playing for Yorkshire on four occasions.
13.
Billy Batten stayed at Wakefield Trinity for two seasons before moving to Castleford in January 1927.
14.
Billy Batten had two brothers who were famous players and the Batten dynasty continued with his three sons who all played at the top level, with Eric appearing in a record eight Challenge Cup Finals.