Tim Bateman made the grade after spending two years as a national Under-19 representative in 2005 and 2006. In winning Super rugby selection on the back of his first Air New Zealand Cup campaign with Canterbury in 2006, Bateman followed in the footsteps of the likes of Andrew Mehrtens, Aaron Mauger, Daniel Carter, Scott Hamilton and Stephen Brett, who had all graduated to senior rugby via the Christchurch Boys’ High School production line. Bateman scored the first try of his Super 14 career during the Crusaders 32-10 win over the Bulls at Jade Stadium in March of his first season (2007).  It was one of three appearances that he made in his debut season. He showed his capabilities when forming a dangerous midfield partnership with Casey Laulala during the final part of Canterbury’s successful 2008 Air New Zealand Cup campaign. Quick on his feet and a danger from set pieces, Bateman can also surprise with his robust defence. A New Zealand Maori representative, Bateman is in the latter stages of a law degree at the University of Canterbury.