The North Queensland Toyota Cowboys have signed English international forward John Bateman on a two-year deal for the 2025 and 2026 NRL seasons.
Bateman, 31, joins the Cowboys after securing an early release from the Wests Tigers. With a decorated career spanning both the Super League and NRL, Bateman is expected to bring extensive experience and leadership to the team.
“We have been in the market for an experienced forward with the ability to play either in the middle or on an edge,” said Cowboys General Manager of Football, Michael Luck.
“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. Along with what he does on the field, we also believe he will be a valuable mentor for our younger forwards in Heilum Luki, Jeremiah Nanai, and Griffin Neame.”
Bateman began his professional career with Bradford as a 17-year-old in 2011 before making a name for himself with the Wigan Warriors. During his Super League tenure, he won two premierships in 2016 and 2018 and a Challenge Cup in 2016.
The dynamic forward made his NRL debut with the Canberra Raiders in 2019, where he won the Dally M Second Rower of the Year in his first season. After returning to the UK in 2020, Bateman rejoined the NRL with the Wests Tigers in 2023.
Over his career, Bateman has amassed 219 Super League games and 66 NRL appearances, in addition to representing England 26 times and Great Britain on four occasions.
The Cowboys are optimistic about what Bateman can bring to the team on and off the field, particularly his defensive grit and mentorship for young players.
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