The two brothers meet in a Hull derby for the first time
James Batchelor is set to face his brother on Good Friday for the first time in the Hull derby.
For Hull KR’s James Batchelor, not only are city bragging rights on the line in the Good Friday showdown – but also the chance to beat his brother for the first time in one of rugby league‘s fiercest rivalries.
The influential Rovers back-rower is preparing to face brother Joe following his move to Hull FC, who is no stranger to high-profile derbies, having spent seven seasons with St Helens and featuring regularly against Wigan Warriors in the famous clash across the Pennines.
The Robins head into the blockbuster encounter high on confidence after a destructive nine-try display against St Helens. Hull FC, meanwhile, have also built momentum with back-to-back wins, although they were forced to withstand a late fightback from Catalans Dragons at the MKM Stadium.
Joe is poised to return from a six-week calf injury – a prospect younger brother James admits he is relishing.
“Someone is ignoring my texts – he must have blocked me,” James joked. “I hope he does play, and I hope he gets to experience a Hull derby because they are special.
“It’s like nothing I’ve ever been a part of before, so I want him to really experience that. But ultimately, I want him to be on the losing side as well.
“It’s always fun playing against him. We grew up playing against each other in the garden, so we’re used to it and like having a bit of a dig at each other.”
The Good Friday derby will also divide the Batchelor household.
“My dad loves it and my mum hates it – so that adds a family element to it as well,” he added.
“I’ll get a text from my dad this week saying there’s no way you can let these boys turn up and beat you at your place, and my brother will get a message saying there’s no way you can let them beat you in their own back garden.
“My mum will then text saying, ‘Look after each other.’ She’ll be a bit of a nervous wreck. She always says play nicely, but it doesn’t always go that way.”
The clash will also mark the final Super League Rivals Round for Rovers head coach Willie Peters, who is set to leave at the end of 2026 after being named the inaugural head coach of the PNG Chiefs. That news has only sharpened Hull KR’s focus.
James said: “We’re happy for him. When he first came over, he always said it was his long-term goal and he’s achieved it. But we’re not finished yet – and that starts on Good Friday.”