John Bateman’s reported Wigan Warriors exit “close” as preparations made

John Bateman’s move from Wigan Warriors to Wests Tigers is reportedly close according to the Daily Telegraph.

The Australian publication claims that Bateman’s partner, who he met in Australia when playing with the Canberra Raiders, has already headed over to Australia in preparation of the move.

The reports of Bateman’s move to the Tigers resurfaced at the start of the Rugby League World Cup with a meeting supposedly held between him and coach Tim Sheens who was in the UK to support Italy’s World Cup campaign.

From there, it was said the Tigers were now happy to pay the $250,000 fee to bring Bateman back to the NRL.

Bateman himself wouldn’t comment on the speculation until after the World Cup whilst Wigan themselves denied that any formal approach had been made.

Yesterday it was suggested down under that the move would now gather pace due to England’s exit from the tournament in a heart breaking 27-26 defeat to Samoa in the semi-finals.

According to the Daily Telegraph that appears to be the case with the Tigers said to be “close” to sealing the deal and with Bateman’s partner already down under.

With Bateman headed to Aus, Kai Pearce-Paul set to follow in 2024 and James McDonnell joining Leeds Rhinos for 2023, it’s an interesting situation in the Wigan backrow and leaves Matt Peet with some questions to answer ahead of next season.