John Bateman needs another shoulder operation

He will be sidelined indefinitely after specialists advised him he needs to go under the knife again before he can play. He'd had a shoulder operation in the off-season and had hoped to return this week.

It is the latest early-season drama for Bateman, who has been linked with a return to former club Wigan and - before that - had admitted he would consider a move to another NRL club if they offered more money.

"I'm gutted to be having surgery again but it's what's best for me and the team and to help me get back on the field as soon as possible," Bateman said in a Raiders statement.

“I'll be working harder than ever with my rehab to get myself back on the field with the lads. See you all soon."

His Canberra and ex-Wigan team-mate Ryan Sutton is available for selection again after battling a minor calf injury.