NRL

John Bateman’s time in the NRL is coming to an end, with the veteran English forward confirming he will return home at the completion of the 2026 season after signing with Super League club Bradford Bulls.

The move brings the curtain down on an Australian career that spanned three clubs and included one of the most successful stints by an English forward in the modern NRL era.

Bateman first arrived in Australia ahead of the 2019 season and quickly became one of the competition’s standout back-rowers with the Canberra Raiders.

His relentless work rate, toughness and competitiveness made him an instant fan favourite as Canberra charged all the way to the 2019 Grand Final.

MORE: Bears snare highly sought-after Shark as roster builds momentum

His performances also strengthened his standing as one of England’s premier internationals, with Bateman continuing to feature prominently for his country throughout his time in the NRL.

After leaving Canberra, Bateman had spells with the Wests Tigers and North Queensland Cowboys, although injuries and inconsistency prevented him from reproducing the same level of influence he displayed during his years in the nation’s capital.

(Getty Images)

His stint in Townsville proved particularly frustrating, with injuries limiting his availability and making it difficult for the experienced forward to have the impact many had expected when he arrived at the Cowboys.

Now, Bateman has opted to finish his playing career where it all began setting the scene for what could be the perfect farewell when he decides to hang his boots up for good.

The Bradford junior made his professional debut for the Bulls as a 17-year-old before launching a career that took him through the Super League, the NRL and the international arena, and now he will return.

Bateman said returning to Bradford had always been something he hoped would happen if the opportunity presented itself, admitting the chance to once again represent his hometown club was a special moment.

The 32-year-old also pointed to the opportunity to help guide the next generation of players and contribute to Bradford’s long-term ambitions as key factors behind his decision.

Bradford, meanwhile, views the signing as a major statement as the club continues building following its return to the Super League, with Bateman bringing more than a decade of experience at the highest level of both English and Australian rugby league.

While his NRL career may not have finished the way he would have liked, Bateman now has the opportunity to write one final chapter back at Bradford, where his professional journey first began more than 15 years ago.

NRL

Comments