Craig Stanley was one of fifteen players who joined Rovers in the summer of 2011 as part of a massive overhaul of the playing staff by new manager Paul Buckle. The midfielder was the third player signed by Buckle, agreeing to sign for Rovers on 7 June 2011. He had previously played under Buckle earlier in the year while on loan at Torquay United from Morecambe and the gaffer was keen to work with him again. Craig won four caps with the England National Game XI, the side that represents England at the semi-professional level, and captained the side for his fourth and final appearance.