The Wests Tigers’ hopes of ending the NRL’s longest finals drought seem extra real looking than ever after they signed England worldwide John Bateman.
Key factors:
- English star John Bateman will return to the NRL in 2023 after signing with Wests Tigers
- Bateman has inked a four-year deal after two years with Tremendous League membership Wigan
- The 29-year previous was the most effective forwards within the sport throughout his time with Canberra in 2019-20
The previous Canberra Raiders back-rower will be a part of the Tigers on a four-year deal after being launched from Wigan for what the English membership describe as a “vital switch charge”.
Bateman joins New Zealand worldwide Isaiah Papali’i, former Australian Take a look at prop David Klemmer and three-time premiership-winning hooker Api Koroisau in committing to affix the Tigers for 2023.
“[Bateman] is a world class participant with an infinite work ethic,” mentioned Tigers head coach Tim Sheens.
“He is the kind of participant who leads by instance. I’ve little doubt John will make an enormous contribution to this membership over the following few years.”
The Tigers will hope Bateman can play an enormous half in ending their wait to play finals soccer, which stretches again to 2011.
The 29-year-old beforehand loved a fruitful two-year spell with the Raiders between 2019 and 2020, reaching a grand remaining and a preliminary remaining.
Capped 21 instances for England, Bateman will transfer to Australia within the new yr.
“I am unable to wait to start a brand new chapter at a membership that I do know goes locations,” Bateman mentioned.
“There was plenty of change at Wests Tigers over the previous few months and all the pieces I hear is constructive.
“I need to be part of the rebuild on the membership and I am actually excited to be coming again to the NRL.”
AAP