Hunslet sign Michael Hayward on loan from Batley Bulldogs

Hayward, 28, has scored six tries in 11 appearances for Bulldogs this season.

He joined Batley at the start of 2016 from Castleford Lock Lane following a spell in Italy playing rugby union.

He was BARLA and Yorkshire international player of the year in 2015 and Hunslet director of rugby Darren Williams said: “Gary [Thornton, Hunslet’s coach] wanted to increase competition in our outside-backs following Gavin Duffy’s departure due to work commitments.

“We have also just been informed that Marcus Webb has been selected to tour Australia in July with the Welsh Students so he will also be unavailable.

“We spoke to Michael at the end of the 2016 season, but he decided to stay at Batley who gave him the opportunity to turn professional.

“This season he has been a regular fixture in their team until recently.

“He’s athletic with pace to burn. He trained with us for the first time on Thursday and will come into consideration for Sunday’s home game with York City Knights.”