John Bateman Joins North Queensland Cowboys on Two-Year Deal from 2025

England international John Bateman has signed a two-year contract with the NRL team North Queensland Cowboys, effective from 2025. This move follows his early release from Wests Tigers. The 31-year-old second rower started his professional career at his local club, Bradford Bulls, before transferring to Wigan Warriors in 2014. During his time at Wigan, he secured two Super League titles and was recognized as the club’s player of the year on three occasions. After an initial period in Australia playing in the NRL for Canberra Raiders, and a brief return to Wigan in 2021, Bateman joined the Sydney-based Wests in 2023. He spent the latter part of 2024 on loan with Warrington. Cowboys general manager of football Micheal Luck commented on the acquisition, stating, “We have been in the market for an experienced forward with the ability to play either in the middle or on an edge.” Luck further added that “John bases his game around defensive intent and willingness to compete in every situation – a couple of areas we’ve made no secret we want to improve significantly on in 2025.” Bateman, who holds 26 caps for England and four for Great Britain, participated in 10 matches for Warrington towards the conclusion of the 2024 season. His contributions helped the team secure a play-off position, where they were ultimately defeated by Grand Finalists Hull KR.