He might be stuck largely indoors, but Canberra Raiders star John Bateman is ensuring he keeps progressing his shoulder rehabilitation to be ready when the NRL resumes.
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Bateman had shoulder surgery just a few weeks out from the start of the 2020 season and was due to return rounds 7-8 before the coronavirus pandemic suspended the NRL indefinitely.
It means he might only miss the opening two rounds and be ready when - or if - it returns later this year.
He's got some weights at home to ensure he's taking steps towards that return, having already started running again.
New Zealand international Joe Tapine has been filling in for Bateman on the Raiders' right edge as part of a completely new combination - along with recruits George Williams and Curtis Scott, and Nick Cotric.
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"We got an email today off the NRL today what the restrictions are [in regards to the COVID-19 virus], Bateman told Fox Sports.
"It's about finding your own thing to do. I've got a couple of weights at home I can just crack on and do.
"Just keeping the movement there in my shoulder and try and progress, not standing still. That's the worst thing.
"If you start standing still on injuries it starts going back to square one. I've started running as well now. That's what I do to get out and about."
David Polkinghorne
Covering the Raiders, Cavalry, cycling and racing, plus everything else that involves sport in the ACT, for The Canberra Times. Basically I love sport and watching it is a full-time job. Email: david.polkinghorne@canberratimes.com.au
Covering the Raiders, Cavalry, cycling and racing, plus everything else that involves sport in the ACT, for The Canberra Times. Basically I love sport and watching it is a full-time job. Email: david.polkinghorne@canberratimes.com.au
