Dragons prop Greg Bateman announces retirement from rugby

The Dragons loosehead spent two seasons at Rodney Parade, playing 22 games, before his contract expired this summer.

Bateman arrived in Gwent from Leicester Tigers, but his first campaign was blighted by injuries. He was out from October until February and made just eight appearances and four starts.

This season, Bateman started eight games, and came off the bench four times – including in his final game at home to Cardiff.

However, with his contract up, Dragons announced that Bateman was one of 16 players who would not be offered a new deal as Dean Ryan looks to overhaul the squad which finished second bottom in the United Rugby Championship with just two wins.

Greg Bateman is tackled by Josh Wycherley and Jack Crowley as Dragons faced Munster in the United Rugby Championship. Picture: Huw Evans Picture Agency.

“I’m incredibly grateful to all the coaches, medics and staff that have helped and supported me for the last 12 seasons,” he said.

“I also want to thank the supporters, particularly the Welford Road faithful, who were so compassionate in my hardest times – I’ll never forget that. 

“Thank you to four fantastic clubs who’ve shaped me as a player and a person.”

Also leaving the club were Adam Warren, Jonah Holmes, Dan Babos, Dan Baker, Mesake Doge, Harry Fry, Tom Griffiths, Owen Jenkins, Josh Lewis, Evan Lloyd, Joe Maksymiw, Will Talbot-Davies, and Max Williams.

“We would like to thank all the players for their commitment and effort throughout their time as Dragons,” said director of rugby Ryan.

“It is a difficult time of year, but we must make difficult decisions if we want change.

“The players have continued to give everything to the jersey, as they have always done, and I’m in awe of their efforts during this period.

“I’m sure our supporters will give them the reception they deserve following our final game with the Emirates Lions and we wish them every success with their future endeavours.”

With his contract up, Bateman has now called time on his rugby career to focus on his People’s Captain craft beer brand.

His career began when he was signed to London Welsh in 2012, after which he joined Exeter Chiefs and then spent five years at Leicester Tigers before he joined the Dragons in 2020.