Sport Confidential: Shane Richardson’s cryptic “crocodile roll” warning to John Bateman

Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson has called out John Bateman questioning the Englishman’s willingness to join the club in the “crocodile roll” that lies ahead.

John Bateman has been told that he will need to toe the line at the Wests Tigers next year or face the consequences amid fresh speculation over his future.

Bateman is currently in England preparing for a Test series against Samoa, having finished the season on a loan deal with Super League side Warrington.

He is due to return to the Tigers for the start of next season but there has been talk he could be on the move given his relationship with coach Benji Marshall.

Tigers chief executive Shane Richardson said Bateman’s future is in his own hands and there would be an expectation that he – along his teammates – fall into line.

Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson (main) has read the riot act to John Bateman (inset).

“We don’t want any player who doesn’t want to be at the club for the crocodile roll that lies ahead and that applies to every player including John Bateman,” Richardson said.

“If he’s not comfortable with the club and the direction Benji is taking us, that is a decision for him.”

Bateman has two years left on a contract that is believed to pay him excess of $650,000 a season. That won’t stop the Tigers and Marshall from sending him back to NSW Cup if they feel he isn’t buying into the club’s ethos.