Leeds Rhinos will be without Aidan Sezer for next weekend’s Super League final against St Helens, after the playmaker was smashed in a reckless tackle by his former Raiders teammate during his side’s win over Wigan Warriors on Friday.

Bateman, who is said to be sniffing out a return to the NRL and could find a home at the Tigers, clobbered Sezer in the process of trying to put pressure on the kicker.

But his attempted tackle went horribly wrong, making contact with Sezer’s head and knocking the halfback down.

The 28-year-old, who can play in the back row or in the centres, immediately recognised his error, as he swiftly attempted to stabilise his former teammate. 

Bateman was sent off for the ugly incident, and once again went over to Sezer to apologise and check on his health before making his way off the ground.

Leeds went on to claim their semi-final with a strong 20-8 victory, securing their first final appearance since 2017.

“When we lost John the game got away from us then,” Wigan coach Matt Peet told the BBC. 

“I think John has got it wrong with his timing. He had all the best intentions. He’s tried to do something positive for the team but he’s got it wrong and I’ve got no complaints.”