Bateman out until June

John Bateman during his one game this season

The England forward discovered the setback after having a shoulder injury rescanned this week.

Coach Shaun Wane revealed the news after Wigan’s 38-16 win at Warrington, their fifth straight victory this season.

Bateman has figured in just one of those matches – the World Club Challenge against Cronulla.

Joel Tomkins reverted to his old second-row spot against the Wolves to cover for Bateman, with another candidate for the role – Willie Isa – himself filling in elsewhere, at centre.

The loss of Bateman, for so long, is a body-blow for Wigan – he is widely-regarded as one of the brightest talents in the Super League.

Wane is also without long-term absentees Dom Manfredi, Micky McIlorum and Sam Tomkins.

Oliver Gildart, Joe Burgess, Lewis Tierney, Ryan Sutton and Jake Shorrocks are also absent.

None are expected back in time for Wigan’s next game, at home to Huddersfield a week on Sunday.