Wigan Warriors star John Bateman is leaving the club to take up a contract in the NRL.
He will join Wests Tigers for the 2023 season and beyond and following the move Bateman has made his first official statement on the transfer having told the media during the World Cup that he would not comment as he focused on things with England.
“I can’t wait to begin a new chapter at a club that I know is going places,” he said on the Wests Tigers’ club website.
“There has been a lot of change at Wests Tigers over the past few months and everything I hear is positive.
“I want to be a part of the rebuild at the club and I’m really excited to be coming back to the NRL.”
Meanwhile, his new coach, formerly of Hull KR, Tim Sheens described him as “world class.”
“He’s a world class player with an enormous work ethic,” said Sheens.
“He’s the type of player who leads by example.
“I have no doubt John will make a big contribution to this club over the next few years.”
Meanwhile, Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe had his say on the matter as you’d expect.
“We are delighted to welcome John and his family to the club,” Pascoe said.
“This is another important piece in what we are building as a club, and I know John will play a very important role in the time that he is with us.”
