John Bateman - on the sidelines
John Bateman: England man is back with Wigan in Super League

John Bateman: Wigan re-sign England forward from Canberra on four-year deal


England international John Bateman will return to Wigan from Canberra Raiders next season after signing a four-year deal.

The 26-year-old forward left the Warriors two years ago to head to Australia and join Canberra, where he was a huge hit during his first season in the NRL in 2019.

But he was given permission by the Raiders to be released from the final year of his contract earlier this week and has now rejoined Wigan.

Bateman, currently nursing a shoulder injury, said: “I’m very happy to be returning to Wigan on a long-term contract.

“On a personal level, some of the best times of my life have been in a Wigan shirt and I can’t wait to return, to play and make some more memories.

“It’s been a tough decision but to be back to Wigan, to be at home with my little girl, my mum and the rest of my family is something I can’t wait to experience once again.

“I still have plenty of unfinished business with the Raiders and my focus now is to get myself back on the pitch as soon as possible and put myself in the frame for selection.”

Like what you've read?

MOST READ

Join for Free
Image of stables faded in a gold gradientGet exclusive Willie Mullins insight, plus access to premium articles, expert tips and Timeform data, plus more...
Log in
Discover Sporting Life Plus benefitsWhite Chevron
Sporting Life Plus Logo