Canberra forward John Bateman will miss at least the next 5-6 weeks with a fractured eye-socket, although his stint on the sidelines could be much longer if he needs surgery.
Bateman will meet with the medical staff on Monday to determine the best course of action for his recovery, with surgery an option to repair the fracture.
As it stands, Bateman will miss just over a month, although his expected return date will be confirmed once he meets with the medics.
As for Joey Leilua, he's in doubt to face the Roosters on Sunday as he continues to battle pain with his neck/shoulder.
Get set for the footy with the FREE Zero Tackle 2026 NRL Season Guide! Packed with 130+ pages of player profiles, team previews, insights and analysis, the 2026 NRL Season Guide is built for fans who want the full picture. Download your free Season Guide HERE.
























Karma.
Bateman is a world class grub.
On what basis ?
He has been a very good addition to the Raiders pack. I can see the green machine slipping back if he is out for any length of time. The lad deserves better than this.
On the basis that he is not a Parramatta river slivering slivering underwater critter💪🤣👍
Says the guy with Roberts, Lodge and Darius Boyd playing for his club…you should look at the state of your own back yard first Kev.