It was long rumoured that John Bateman would return and now he has, with the Wests Tigers signing him on a four-year deal.
In a boost for the already strong Tigers forward pack, Bateman’s impact during his time at the Canberra Raiders is exactly what the Tigers hope to see from him.
Bateman has most recently played for the Wigan Warriors and he is the sort of player that Tigers coach Tim Sheens knows can change games.
“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.”
Bateman is also looking forward to the move and has heard good things about the Tigers moving forward.
“I can’t wait to begin a new chapter at a club that I know is going places,” Bateman said.
“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.”