John Bateman is relieved to be back in familiar ground as the star speaks up about Wigan’s departure, the 2023 season, and Benji Marshall.
Standing at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena, 2018 Super League Grand Final winner John Bateman acknowledges it feels nice to be back in Shaun Wane’s England squad.
The Warriors were startled when the 30-year-old back-rower requested to leave at the end of 2022 to rejoin to the NRL with Wests Tigers, after previously spending two years with the Canberra Raiders and reaching the 2019 Grand Final in Australia.
He made 174 appearances for the DW Stadium outfit across two spells, scoring 40 tries and was named in the 2018 Super League Dream Team.
“It’s good to come back here, I’ve got some special memories,” Bateman said.
“It’s always nice to see familiar faces.” We’ve spent some enjoyable times together.”
“I probably came back at a time when I wasn’t really happy and made the decision to be back with family,” Bateman continued, “and I’m really thankful to Wigan for bringing me back.”
“I love the club and have had some special times here, but I wanted to play in the NRL.”
“As I’m getting older, you never know when that opportunity will come again, and joining Wests Tigers was a big decision for me and my family.”
“I didn’t take it lightly, it took a bit of time to sort it out and think about it but I obviously made the decision to go back.”
His new team finished last in the Australian tournament and parted ways with renowned coach Tim Sheens after only four wins in 24 games.
And, beginning in 2024, the Tigers will be coached by rugby league legend Benji Marshall, who made nearly 350 NRL games during a career that included the 2005 Premiership, a Rugby League World Cup with New Zealand, and the Golden Boot as the world’s greatest player.
“It was a bit different but you learn quite a lot about yourself,” remarked Bateman.
“It’s been an interesting year, and I’m looking forward to returning – but first, business in England.”
“I don’t take defeat lightly.” But returning here and having fun and winning again makes a significant difference.
“He’s a nice guy, Benji. He has a terrific rapport with the players and staff.
“He knows when to laugh and when to be serious. I’m really looking forward to playing under him.”
Bateman started in the back-row for England in the opening test match against Tonga, and a win in Huddersfield will see the home nation win the historic series following the 22-18 opening triumph in St Helens.
He is set to be joined in the matchday 17 by current Warriors captain Liam Farrell for Saturday’s clash, with winger Matty Ashton also given the nod following an injury to Tommy Makinson.
On the game, Bateman added: “The Tonga boys came over here and it’s a pretty star-studded squad.
“We beat them last week, and we want to do the same this week.” We’ve been together for another week and have obviously played the opposition.
“Hopefully we know what they’ll chuck at us and they’ll know more about us, too.”
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