John Bateman released from Wests Tigers to join Cowboys on two-year deal | Market Watch
John Bateman has played his last game for the Wests Tigers, with the England international signing a two-year deal with North Queensland. SEE THE DETAILS.
John Bateman has played his last game for the Wests Tigers with the English International released from the final two years of his contract to join the Cowboys.
North Queensland announced Bateman’s signing on a two-year deal for 2025 and 2026 that will be offset by the Wests Tigers paying a large portion of the deal.
Bateman’s exit from the Wests Tigers after two seasons and 32 first grade appearances has emerged in the wake of head coach Benji Marshall’s staunch denial of a reported rift between him and the English International.
Bateman had intended to resume training with the Wests Tigers at the conclusion of his annual leave in January.
However, the Cowboys are eager for Bateman to commence pre-season training as soon as possible in a bid to both acclimatise to the Townsville weather conditions, but also build a winning connection with his new teammates.
The Cowboys are firm believers the 31-year-old will add a much-needed toughness to their forward pack, while also proving a valuable mentor to the club’s talented batch of younger forwards including Heilum Luki, Reuben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai and Griffin Neame.
“We have been in the market for an experienced forward with the ability to play either in the middle or on an edge,” Cowboys general manager of football, Micheal Luck, said.
“John bases his game around defensive intent and willingness to compete in every situation – a couple of areas we’ve made no secret we want to improve significantly on in 2025.
“Along with what he does on the field, we also believe he will be a valuable mentor for our younger forwards in Heilum Luki, Jeremiah Nanai and Griffin Neame.”
South Sydney had been considering signing Bateman on the basis of his elite-level experience, hard-nosed mentality and likelihood that the Wests Tigers would contribute to a large portion of his salary.
However, those talks fell over, when the Cowboys showed serious interest.
Although contributing heavily to Bateman’s new contract at the Cowboys, his exit will allow the Wests Tigers to create an extra spot in their 2025 roster to promote one of several talented players into their top-30.
“On behalf of everyone at the club I want to thank John and wish him all the very best with his future,” Tigers CEO Shane Richardson said.
Best 17, rookies to watch: Bulldogs primed for premiership charge
There’s something special about Canterbury heading into 2025. PAMELA WHALEY breaks down the issues facing the club, the rookies to watch and more in our deep dive into the Bulldogs.
Milford signs with Brisbane Broncos feeder club
Former Broncos and Dolphins playmaker Anthony Milford has made a last-ditch effort to revive his NRL career, signing with one of Brisbane’s feeder clubs.