Phil Maynard snaps up Tigers duo

COVENTRY have moved to beef up their pack with the recruitment of youngsters Sam Bates and Luke Beales. Rugby director Phil Maynard has brought the former Leicester academy props to the Butts Park as he looks to build a pack capable of powering the club back into the Championship.

Nineteen-year-old Beales joined the Tigers set up in 2007 from junior club Diss. He spent three years as an active member of their development squad during which time he converted from back row to hooker and finally loosehead.

Bates is an Old Coventrians product who was at Welford Road for two years. And Maynard is excited at the prospect of both players continuing their development with the Blue and Whites.

“They are both Coventry boys and I think that will carry some weight when it comes to the battle,” Maynard said.

“Sam is a big human being and a good prospect who feels he wants to start playing some rugby. He sees an opportunity at Coventry to make a future for himself.

“Luke is also a Leicester academy player and another exciting youngster. It’s good to have both aboard.”

Flanker Jamie Harrop has re-signed for Cov.