Tim Bateman marks return toNZRU after signing new professional deal with Hurricanes – Rugby News
Wellington based New Zealand Super Rugby Franchise, Hurricanes, has announced the signing of their former New Zealand Maori’s utility back, Tim Bateman, to strengthen their squad for next season’s campaign. Officials at the club have confirmed the signing of Bateman to mark his return to the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) from the Japanese Football Rugby Union (JFRU) club, Coca-Cola West Red Sparks, on Friday, October 14.
Greymouth born Bateman started his professional Rugby Union career with NZRU outfits Crusaders and Canterbury. He has made 38 appearances for the Crusaders in the Super Rugby competition and another 38 appearances for Canterbury in the New Zealand’s provincial Rugby Union competition, Air New Zealand cup. He left NZRU in 2010 when he signed for the Red Tigers.
NZRU’s General Manager professional rugby, Neil Sorensen, has expressed his pleasure on the return of the young and talented Bateman to the country. NZRU are under immense pressure with to retain their top talent from flying out of the country following the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Although temporarily they have retained their big names for the next season, the move out is on the cards for the 2013/14 European season.
Sorensen added, “We're always pleased to see good rugby talent return, and its fantastic news that Tim and his family are coming back to New Zealand.” He has expressed his hope that Bateman will deliver good performances in the Super Rugby circuit to have a shot for the All Blacks selection. He added, “At just 24, he has plenty of time and rugby on his side and we look forward to seeing him in a Hurricanes jersey next year.”
The 24-year-old Bateman has expressed his excitement on signing his new professional deal with the Hurricanes. He added, “I've played against the Hurricanes a number of times and I admire the way they play. I'm looking forward to moving to Wellington and being part of that environment and putting in some good performances for the team next year.”
Commenting on his stay in Japan, Bateman added that he and his family have enjoyed there time in Japan. He added that one of the reasons behind moving back to Super Rugby is to play competitive rugby again.
Hurricanes Head Coach Mark Hammett has expressed his delight on securing the services of the former New Zealand Maori’s backs player, Bateman. and said, “Tim is an exciting signing for both the Hurricanes and New Zealand.”
Hammett has praised Bateman’s personality attributes and game related skills. He termed Bateman’s as a good student of the game with good character and leadership skills. He added that the fact the Bateman can play at centre, winger and fly half positions, gives Hurricanes versatility in their squad.
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