John Bateman turns back on Wayne Bennett as Queensland NRL team emerges as suitor
Bateman has decided against a move to the Rabbitohs.
Wantaway Wests Tigers backrower John Bateman has informed Wayne Bennett that he is not interested in playing for Souths as a Queensland club emerges as favourites for the English international's signature. South Sydney were understood to be seriously considering bringing Bateman to the club due to his hard-nosed approach and extensive NRL experience.
It is also understood the Wests Tigers are willing to contribute a large portion of his salary if a rival club takes him on board and both club and player are keen to go their separate ways. However, according to The Daily Telegraph, despite interest from Bennett, Bateman has informed the club he won't consider joining them.
Instead, the Cowboys have emerged as a possible destination for Bateman, with Todd Payten reportedly keen on adding extra grit to his forward pack. It is believed the club feel the 31-year-old can be a mentor to the talented crop of young forwards such as Heilum Luki, Reuben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai and Griffin Neame.
It is understood discussions are underway between both parties. However, no deal has yet been done and Bateman is currently expected to return to training with the Wests Tigers on January 6.
Benji Marshall 'unsure' if John Bateman will remain a Tiger
But Tigers coach Benji Marshall admits he is unsure if the English international will return to the club in January. Despite Marshall rubbishing suggestions he and the back-rower have had a falling out after he was granted a release to finish the 2024 season with Warrington in the Super League, there has been uncertainty around when he will return to pre-season or if he will at all.
“I’m actually unsure, to be honest,” Marshall replied when asked if Bateman would return. “What I will say though is what’s been reported about is false, I haven’t had a falling out with John.
“I’ve had honest discussions and in-house discussions around where John’s future is. Those discussions will remain private, but the things that have been reported are not true.”
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Cowboys have cash to splash after Reece Robson exit
While the Cowboys have seemingly emerged out of nowhere as a potential destination for Bateman, it shouldn't come as a surprise given the free cash they have to splash following the news hooker Reece Robson signed with the Roosters for 2026 and beyond.
With the No.9 leaving at year's end, Payten will need to find a new hooker. But on the plus side, Payten will have a mini war chest available to target not just a hooker but add to other areas of his squad. It is understood North Queensland has around $800,000 to splash and with many clubs having somewhat of a salary cap squeeze, the Cowboys find themselves in a unique position.
It would make sense for the Cowboys to go shopping for a dummy half at the local rivals, the Broncos, where they can pick from one of six different hooker options, all likely at a discounted price. After Ben Hunt signed with the Broncos, the likelihood is upon Ezra Mam's return he will switch to hooker.
This means there is likely no room for the likes of Billy Walters, Tyson Smoothy and especially not backup hooker Cory Paix at Brisbane, three players that will likely be of interest to Payten. While trying to lure highly touted youngsters Blake Mozer or Cameron Bukowski is also something Payten is sure to look at.
