English second-rower John Bateman’s brief period in the English Super League is set to be just that, as he aims to return to the Wests Tigers in 2025.
Currently under contract with the Tigers until at least the end of 2026, Bateman was granted a short-term release from his deal for the rest of 2024 just before the transfer deadline. This allowed him to play with the Warrington Wolves for the final weeks of the season while keeping his lucrative Tigers contract intact.
Initially, there were expectations that Bateman, who struggled under coach Benji Marshall, might seek a full release from his contract with the Australian club. However, reports from the Sydney Morning Herald indicate that he plans to return to the Tigers for the 2025 pre-season.
Officials at the joint-venture had hoped Bateman would request a release, which would have freed up over half a million dollars in salary cap space to assist in their rebuilding efforts. This rebuild has already seen the acquisition of players like Jarome Luai, Sunia Turuva, Jack Bird, and Jeral Skelton for next year, despite the Tigers finishing last for the third consecutive year—though this is the first under Marshall’s coaching.
Further signings may be challenging now, as Bateman’s manager, Isaac Moses, recently confirmed to Tigers’ chairman Shane Richardson that his client will indeed return in 2025. Bateman is among several players the Tigers wish to move on for the upcoming season, including Jayden Sullivan, Brent Naden, and Charlie Staines. Additionally, the club is reportedly open to allowing David Klemmer to leave, as he has also struggled to meet expectations on his significant $800,000 annual salary.
GET MORE NEWS ON LIFESTYLEROOM.NET
Leave a Reply