Shock development in John Bateman’s future

John Bateman could be heading back to the NRL in a sensational return.

The second-rower’s form has been up and down since returning to the Wigan Warriors ahead of the 2021 season and speculation has now linked him with a return back to the southern hemisphere.

The Australian’s Brent Read reported on Triple M that NRL interest in beginning to grow for Bateman after claims his partner, who is from Canberra, is growing “restless”.

“There is a bit of mail there are a couple of NRL clubs circling John Bateman, just keeping an eye on things, potentially with a view to bring him back to the NRL,” Read said.

“It’s one to keep an eye on over the off-season.”

Bateman was a very popular figure at Canberra with his workaholic defence and ability to ruffle a few feathers going down well with the Green Machine’s fans.

And, having played just nine times for Wigan in 2021, it appears this story could develop further in the near future.