Seasoned Rugby League Star John Bateman Poised for Potential Super League Return
John Bateman, a seasoned veteran in both the Super League and NRL, may be set for a return to the British Super League. The former Bradford Bulls prodigy, who joined Wigan Warriors in 2014, has enjoyed a highly successful career, winning two Super League titles and a World Club Challenge during his 132 appearances for the Cherry and White.
After a brief stint in the NRL with Canberra Raiders in 2018-2020, Bateman returned to Wigan in 2021, winning another Challenge Cup before heading back to Australia to join the Wests Tigers in 2023. However, with the Tigers struggling this season and their focus on signing star player Jarome Luai from 2025, they are now keen to offload Bateman and free up valuable salary cap space.
Negotiations Underway for Bateman’s Potential Exit
According to reports, Wests Chief Executive Shane Richardson has traveled to the UK to negotiate deals for several underperforming players, with Bateman being one of the key names on the chopping block. Bateman’s current contract with the Tigers is worth a reported £300,000 per year, which the club is eager to remove from their books.
“This development is likely to ignite a scramble among Super League clubs to secure the services of the England international, who has earned 24 caps for his country and four for Great Britain.”
Bateman’s combination of experience, talent, and proven success at the highest level make him a highly sought-after commodity in the British game. While Bateman’s salary may prove a challenge for some Super League teams, the Tigers are reportedly willing to make financial concessions to facilitate his departure.
The 29-year-old second-rower has been a regular fixture in the Tigers’ lineup this season, playing the full 80 minutes in six of their eight games, including both of their wins.
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