Signings, Suggestions & Rumours Discussion

BlackWhiteGold said:
Very true @tony soprano hadn't thought of that about Cheika.
Click to expand...
But will Rugby go “back to the future” with Cheika. And will they want an Aussie coach or be prepared to look elsewhere ?
I was thinking Foster, the outgoing AB coach, may be considered, or do they take a punt with Larkham, who has been in the fringes for last couple of years.
Or are there other options out there ?
I’m not sure they’ll go back to Cheika.
 

John Bateman happy to be back in familiar territory as star opens up on Wigan exit, 2023 season and Benji Marshall​

Standing at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena, 2018 Super League Grand Final winner John Bateman admits it’s good to be back on familiar territory in Shaun Wane’s England squad.

By Josh McAllister
Published 27th Oct 2023, 11:00 BST- 2 min read


The 30-year-old back-rower shocked the Warriors at the end of 2022 after requesting to leave for a return to the NRL with Wests Tigers, having previously enjoyed a two-year spell with Canberra Raiders that included reaching the 2019 Grand Final in Australia.

He made 174 appearances for the DW Stadium outfit across two spells, scoring 40 tries and was named in the 2018 Super League Dream Team.
John Bateman, England Rugby League Training at Robin Park Arena

John Bateman, England Rugby League Training at Robin Park Arena


“It’s good to come back here, I’ve got some special memories,” Bateman said.

“It’s always good to see some familiar faces. We’ve had some good moments together.”

Bateman continued: “I probably came back at a time where I probably wasn't really happy and made the decision to be back with family and I’m really thankful to Wigan for bringing me back.
“I hold the club close to my heart, I’ve had some special times here but felt like I wanted to be in the NRL.

“I’m getting a bit older now, so you never knew when that opportunity was going to come back and joining Wests Tigers was a big decision for me and my family.

“I didn’t take it lightly, it took a bit of time to sort it out and think about it but I obviously made the decision to go back.”

His new side finished at the bottom of the ladder in the competition down under and parted ways with veteran coach Tim Sheens, having picked up just four wins from 24.

And the Tigers will be coached by rugby league icon Benji Marshall from 2024, who made close to 350 NRL appearances across an illustrious career that included the 2005 Premiership, a Rugby League World Cup with New Zealand and the Golden Boot as the world’s best player.

“It was a bit different but you learn quite a lot about yourself,” Bateman said.
“It’s been an interesting year and I’m looking forward to going back - but business first in England.
“I don’t take losing lightly. But coming back here and enjoying it and winning again is a big difference.
“He’s a good fella, Benji. He’s got a good connection with the players and staff.
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“He knows when to laugh and when to be serious. I’m really looking forward to playing under him.”
Bateman started in the back-row for England in the opening test match against Tonga, and a win in Huddersfield will see the home nation win the historic series following the 22-18 opening triumph in St Helens.

He is set to be joined in the matchday 17 by current Warriors captain Liam Farrell for Saturday’s clash, with winger Matty Ashton also given the nod following an injury to Tommy Makinson.
On the game, Bateman added: “The Tonga boys came over here and it’s a pretty star-studded squad.

“We put a win on them last week and we want to do exactly the same this week. We’ve had another week together and have obviously now played the opposition.

“Hopefully we know what they’ll chuck at us and they’ll know more about us, too.”




​

 
Last edited by a moderator:
851 said:

John Bateman happy to be back in familiar territory as star opens up on Wigan exit, 2023 season and Benji Marshall​

Standing at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena, 2018 Super League Grand Final winner John Bateman admits it’s good to be back on familiar territory in Shaun Wane’s England squad.
By Josh McAllister
Published 27th Oct 2023, 11:00 BST- 2 min read

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The 30-year-old back-rower shocked the Warriors at the end of 2022 after requesting to leave for a return to the NRL with Wests Tigers, having previously enjoyed a two-year spell with Canberra Raiders that included reaching the 2019 Grand Final in Australia.


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He made 174 appearances for the DW Stadium outfit across two spells, scoring 40 tries and was named in the 2018 Super League Dream Team.
John Bateman, England Rugby League Training at Robin Park Arena

John Bateman, England Rugby League Training at Robin Park Arena
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“It’s good to come back here, I’ve got some special memories,” Bateman said.

“It’s always good to see some familiar faces. We’ve had some good moments together.”

Bateman continued: “I probably came back at a time where I probably wasn't really happy and made the decision to be back with family and I’m really thankful to Wigan for bringing me back.
“I hold the club close to my heart, I’ve had some special times here but felt like I wanted to be in the NRL.
Advertisement

“I’m getting a bit older now, so you never knew when that opportunity was going to come back and joining Wests Tigers was a big decision for me and my family.

“I didn’t take it lightly, it took a bit of time to sort it out and think about it but I obviously made the decision to go back.”
His new side finished at the bottom of the ladder in the competition down under and parted ways with veteran coach Tim Sheens, having picked up just four wins from 24.
And the Tigers will be coached by rugby league icon Benji Marshall from 2024, who made close to 350 NRL appearances across an illustrious career that included the 2005 Premiership, a Rugby League World Cup with New Zealand and the Golden Boot as the world’s best player.

“It was a bit different but you learn quite a lot about yourself,” Bateman said.
“It’s been an interesting year and I’m looking forward to going back - but business first in England.
“I don’t take losing lightly. But coming back here and enjoying it and winning again is a big difference.
“He’s a good fella, Benji. He’s got a good connection with the players and staff.
Advertisement

“He knows when to laugh and when to be serious. I’m really looking forward to playing under him.”
Bateman started in the back-row for England in the opening test match against Tonga, and a win in Huddersfield will see the home nation win the historic series following the 22-18 opening triumph in St Helens.
He is set to be joined in the matchday 17 by current Warriors captain Liam Farrell for Saturday’s clash, with winger Matty Ashton also given the nod following an injury to Tommy Makinson.
On the game, Bateman added: “The Tonga boys came over here and it’s a pretty star-studded squad.
Advertisement

“We put a win on them last week and we want to do exactly the same this week. We’ve had another week together and have obviously now played the opposition.
“Hopefully we know what they’ll chuck at us and they’ll know more about us, too.”
Related topics:John BatemanEnglandNRLWiganShaun WaneTim Sheens



​

Click to expand...
If Johnee doesnt fire this year he can head back there. Needs a proper pre season
 
851 said:

John Bateman happy to be back in familiar territory as star opens up on Wigan exit, 2023 season and Benji Marshall​

Standing at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena, 2018 Super League Grand Final winner John Bateman admits it’s good to be back on familiar territory in Shaun Wane’s England squad.

By Josh McAllister
Published 27th Oct 2023, 11:00 BST- 2 min read


The 30-year-old back-rower shocked the Warriors at the end of 2022 after requesting to leave for a return to the NRL with Wests Tigers, having previously enjoyed a two-year spell with Canberra Raiders that included reaching the 2019 Grand Final in Australia.

He made 174 appearances for the DW Stadium outfit across two spells, scoring 40 tries and was named in the 2018 Super League Dream Team.
John Bateman, England Rugby League Training at Robin Park Arena

John Bateman, England Rugby League Training at Robin Park Arena


“It’s good to come back here, I’ve got some special memories,” Bateman said.

“It’s always good to see some familiar faces. We’ve had some good moments together.”

Bateman continued: “I probably came back at a time where I probably wasn't really happy and made the decision to be back with family and I’m really thankful to Wigan for bringing me back.
“I hold the club close to my heart, I’ve had some special times here but felt like I wanted to be in the NRL.

“I’m getting a bit older now, so you never knew when that opportunity was going to come back and joining Wests Tigers was a big decision for me and my family.

“I didn’t take it lightly, it took a bit of time to sort it out and think about it but I obviously made the decision to go back.”

His new side finished at the bottom of the ladder in the competition down under and parted ways with veteran coach Tim Sheens, having picked up just four wins from 24.

And the Tigers will be coached by rugby league icon Benji Marshall from 2024, who made close to 350 NRL appearances across an illustrious career that included the 2005 Premiership, a Rugby League World Cup with New Zealand and the Golden Boot as the world’s best player.

“It was a bit different but you learn quite a lot about yourself,” Bateman said.
“It’s been an interesting year and I’m looking forward to going back - but business first in England.
“I don’t take losing lightly. But coming back here and enjoying it and winning again is a big difference.
“He’s a good fella, Benji. He’s got a good connection with the players and staff.
Advertisement

“He knows when to laugh and when to be serious. I’m really looking forward to playing under him.”
Bateman started in the back-row for England in the opening test match against Tonga, and a win in Huddersfield will see the home nation win the historic series following the 22-18 opening triumph in St Helens.

He is set to be joined in the matchday 17 by current Warriors captain Liam Farrell for Saturday’s clash, with winger Matty Ashton also given the nod following an injury to Tommy Makinson.
On the game, Bateman added: “The Tonga boys came over here and it’s a pretty star-studded squad.

“We put a win on them last week and we want to do exactly the same this week. We’ve had another week together and have obviously now played the opposition.

“Hopefully we know what they’ll chuck at us and they’ll know more about us, too.”




​

Click to expand...

Don't get use to winning mate.
 
Conbat07 said:
Based on? They dont have to agree on every player
Click to expand...

Just unnecessary which a double spoon team don't need. Some stuff in the media coming out again. The angle is benji does not have the experience to poke his nose in fulton recruitment.

He not getting along with Fulton and Fulton has the majority of the player managers.

Very sad which our club does not need, but I guess shit like this is why we are so crap.
 
tony soprano said:
Just unnecessary which a double spoon team don't need. Some stuff in the media coming out again. The angle is benji does not have the experience to poke his nose in fulton recruitment.

He not getting along with Fulton and Fulton has the majority of the player managers.

Very sad which our club does not need, but I guess shit like this is why we are so crap.
Click to expand...
I guess you are referring to the Peter Peters 90 seconds of Marshall hatred on the radio over the weekend?

I can't imagine Fulton telling him anything anymore after his outburst earlier in the season. Going the right way to getting the sack if he is.

Peter Peters was complaining that we paid 200k instead of 150k for Sezer. And that Benji has missed all his targets, with no players (including young talent) wanting to play under him.

Was him speaking a load of BS. This guy needs to get over himself.
 
Tigers_Wests said:
I guess you are referring to the Peter Peters 90 seconds of Marshall hatred on the radio over the weekend?

I can't imagine Fulton telling him anything anymore after his outburst earlier in the season. Going the right way to getting the sack if he is.

Peter Peters was complaining that we paid 200k instead of 150k for Sezer. And that Benji has missed all his targets, with no players (including young talent) wanting to play under him.

Was him speaking a load of BS. This guy needs to get over himself.
Click to expand...

Some talk on twitter too. I wouldn't be too concerned if the feud is true or not because I think it's true.

But up to you to believe it or not.

The whole Seyfarth/twal/keppie thing is just pathetic and not what we need for all parties.

Fact remains tho fulton has the player managers and benji does not so i would be careful for what I wish for.

The club needs to sort their shit out ASAP. Maybe a football director can sort their crap out.
 
earl said:
IP and Bateman haven't delivered value to us whereas Blore will.

I think we can let him go but we've mismanaged our cap via signing Bateman especially.

Our big issue is we have 4 guys on big dollars who are meant to lead us in the forwards and they aren't delivering. Klemmer, Stef, Bateman and IP should give us one of the best packs on paper in the comp. They have Pole, Seyfarth, Twal, currently Blore and other guys coming through to support them but the support players were probably better than those 4 guys.
Click to expand...
Have to agree with you wholeheartedly on the above bolded comments you have made.

It's not like it is just when these players play for Wests Tigers that they fail to make an impression, they continually fail to impress when playing rep football for their chosen country or state as well.

You would think that if it was just a Wests Tigers thing that is holding these guys back, that with the so called ability that these guys have and with some sort of pride in playing for their chosen state or country they would shine like a beacon at that representative level, but that does not seem to be the case either.

What have we done to these players, have we completely destroyed their confidence as top line competitive players or are they just past it or have they been over hyped the whole time?

I have been previously critical of Stef for not standing up and making the most of his opportunities at representative level, and he has had a few chances now to impress but has failed to do so.

VERDICT: been over hyped the whole time. Still young and may come good but needs to stop talking and start performing.

John Bateman, to me at least, has been a very poor choice for us, and one that I was not very keen on having here to start with.

VERDICT: I think he is just past it. No doubt that he brings lots of passion but I just think his body is just not up to it any more and this was just season one, just can't see him providing value for money over the next 3 seasons that we have him contracted for, I don't think the contract will go the distance.

Isaiah Papali'i may come good and was starting to look a little better towards the end of the season playing for us and hopefully next season if we can get some sort of a halves combination working we may actually be able to utilise him in a way that he becomes the attacking weapon that he should be. Wasn't too impressed with him last Saturday for New Zealand and as a matter of fact hardly noticed that he was even out there.

VERDICT: I think we have almost destroyed the guy because we have had no idea how to use him. I still think he can come good if we can just work out how to utilise him and get him some good ball.
 
tony soprano said:
Fact remains tho fulton has the player managers and benji does not so i would be careful for what I wish for.
Click to expand...
Fulton has been in the game for a long time, I would hope he has some good connections with player managers.

Benji is fresh out and needs to make his mark, but nearly every player of ours who gets interviewed is quoted as complimenting Marshall. If the players are happy thats what matters. They make the final decision at the end of the day. Managers can advise and work out deals, but the players interests should hold heavy consideration.

In saying all this, I want both to sort out their issues (if they do exist) and stay at the club.
 
earl said:
In the middle and on an edge. I don't want to lose him but I don't think he is great.

Pole & Kit Laulilii are in my opinion better than Blore in the middle but Blore can also play on an edge.

IP and Bateman haven't delivered value to us whereas Blore will.

I think we can let him go but we've mismanaged our cap via signing Bateman especially.

Our big issue is we have 4 guys on big dollars who are meant to lead us in the forwards and they aren't delivering. Klemmer, Stef, Bateman and IP should give us one of the best packs on paper in the comp. They have Pole, Seyfarth, Twal, currently Blore and other guys coming through to support them but the support players were probably better than those 4 guys.

The coaching staff need to sort our forwards out and they have plenty to work with.
Click to expand...
I think you have ridiculously high expectations to think those 4 could/should form one of the best packs in the comp.
They should be able to hold their own against a few other sides but there are several better packs on paper outside the 8, yet alone some of the actual good teams.
 
Telltails said:
Managers are not going to give Fulton their best players to play at Wests Tigers no matter how supposedly friendly he is with them, and if he is at odds with the coach then he is undermining the club. And while he is at it he needs to tell his godfather to shut his trap.
Click to expand...

Will benji fighting with the recruitment manager with the connections be helpful.

Take the personal feelings away the answer is no.
 
851 said:

John Bateman happy to be back in familiar territory as star opens up on Wigan exit, 2023 season and Benji Marshall​

Standing at Wigan’s Robin Park Arena, 2018 Super League Grand Final winner John Bateman admits it’s good to be back on familiar territory in Shaun Wane’s England squad.

By Josh McAllister
Published 27th Oct 2023, 11:00 BST- 2 min read


The 30-year-old back-rower shocked the Warriors at the end of 2022 after requesting to leave for a return to the NRL with Wests Tigers, having previously enjoyed a two-year spell with Canberra Raiders that included reaching the 2019 Grand Final in Australia.

He made 174 appearances for the DW Stadium outfit across two spells, scoring 40 tries and was named in the 2018 Super League Dream Team.
John Bateman, England Rugby League Training at Robin Park Arena

John Bateman, England Rugby League Training at Robin Park Arena


“It’s good to come back here, I’ve got some special memories,” Bateman said.

“It’s always good to see some familiar faces. We’ve had some good moments together.”

Bateman continued: “I probably came back at a time where I probably wasn't really happy and made the decision to be back with family and I’m really thankful to Wigan for bringing me back.
“I hold the club close to my heart, I’ve had some special times here but felt like I wanted to be in the NRL.

“I’m getting a bit older now, so you never knew when that opportunity was going to come back and joining Wests Tigers was a big decision for me and my family.

“I didn’t take it lightly, it took a bit of time to sort it out and think about it but I obviously made the decision to go back.”

His new side finished at the bottom of the ladder in the competition down under and parted ways with veteran coach Tim Sheens, having picked up just four wins from 24.

And the Tigers will be coached by rugby league icon Benji Marshall from 2024, who made close to 350 NRL appearances across an illustrious career that included the 2005 Premiership, a Rugby League World Cup with New Zealand and the Golden Boot as the world’s best player.

“It was a bit different but you learn quite a lot about yourself,” Bateman said.
“It’s been an interesting year and I’m looking forward to going back - but business first in England.
“I don’t take losing lightly. But coming back here and enjoying it and winning again is a big difference.
“He’s a good fella, Benji. He’s got a good connection with the players and staff.
Advertisement

“He knows when to laugh and when to be serious. I’m really looking forward to playing under him.”
Bateman started in the back-row for England in the opening test match against Tonga, and a win in Huddersfield will see the home nation win the historic series following the 22-18 opening triumph in St Helens.

He is set to be joined in the matchday 17 by current Warriors captain Liam Farrell for Saturday’s clash, with winger Matty Ashton also given the nod following an injury to Tommy Makinson.
On the game, Bateman added: “The Tonga boys came over here and it’s a pretty star-studded squad.

“We put a win on them last week and we want to do exactly the same this week. We’ve had another week together and have obviously now played the opposition.

“Hopefully we know what they’ll chuck at us and they’ll know more about us, too.”




Wouldn’t be surprised to see Johnny, in the ears of a few on this trip 🤷‍♂️​

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