BRADFORD BULLS have sealed the return of John Bateman – 13 years after the England veteran left his hometown club. Forward Bateman, 32, has signed a two-year deal, with Bradford holding the option of a third year, to return to England after two seasons with North Queensland Cowboys. Having come through the club’s pathway system, Bateman made his debut for the Bulls aged just 17, against Catalans Dragons in 2011. After three years at Bradford, he joined Wigan Warriors where he won two Super League titles and a World Club Challenge, with his form earning a first NRL move to Canberra Raiders. He last played in Super League in 2024, in a ten-match spell with Warrington Wolves.