Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson has addressed the move of John Bateman to Warrington Wolves, clarifying reports about the reason for his departure.
Australian media had suggested that Bateman was offered to English clubs when Richardson traveled to England a few months ago.
However, on the club’s official podcast, *Behind the Roar*, Richardson refuted these claims, stating: “I never actively promoted him in England. People did inquire about him while I was there, but I did not shop him around.”
“When I was over there, I met with Sam Burgess. I was aware that Sam was looking for a player for next year, but Bateman wasn’t part of those discussions. However, I knew they were in the market for a back-rower.”
Wests Tigers CEO on why John Bateman joined Warrington Wolves
Many reports suggested a falling out with head coach Benji Marshall was the reason for Bateman’s departure, but Richardson clarified that it wasn’t a fall-out but rather a ‘robust conversation’: “Benji has had these types of conversations with many players. The situation was blown out of proportion because Bateman left the next day.
“Benji didn’t only have a robust conversation with John Bateman; he’s had similar discussions with all the senior players.”
“That’s not the reason John Bateman left. We had a phone call with Sam Burgess on Monday night; he reached out to me directly, and had obviously already spoken with John.
“It was in our best interest to let John go for various reasons, which I won’t detail at this moment. Ultimately, it’s just another aspect of our strategy moving forward.”
“John can go over there, reflect on his decisions, and ensure he’s fully committed.”
Richardson also left the possibility open for Bateman to return for the final two years of his contract, stating: “He has another two years left on his contract. We want players who are committed to being in the crocodile role and who are ready to fight for the team.
“I’m not suggesting that John doesn’t want to do that, but he needs to make decisions about his future. If he wants to fulfill that role with us, there’s a place for him.”
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