Luke Bateman to take time away from game after leaving Canberra
Canberra forward Luke Bateman will take time away from the game after leaving the Raiders with immediate effect.
The 25-year-old back-rower has been battling a knee injury over the past 12 months and with the changing environment due to the coronavirus, Bateman has decided he will step away from the game for a little while.
Bateman, who is no relation to team-mate John, has made 71 appearances for the Raiders since making his first-grade debut in 2015.
He said: “It’s been a frustrating period for me with injury and with my contract up at the end of the season and uncertainty about what my future may look like, I’ve decided to finish up with the Raiders and head home and work for a while and get away from footy for a bit.
“I’m not retiring from the game and I hope to play again in the future, but at the moment this is the best decision for me.”
Raiders coach Ricky Stuart commented: “Luke has been a tremendous servant for the club and always gave his best when he was selected to play for the Raiders.
“To play 70 first-grade games is a wonderful achievement and Luke will always be a Raider and respected for his achievements.”
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