- Date of Birth05 / 09 / 1966
- Lions Tours1997
- International CapsEngland / Lions
- Lions Origin SchoolsHeckmondwike GS
- Lions Origin ClubsRotherham Titans, Sale Sharks, Cleckheaton, Huddersfield Giants RL, Otley, Newcastle Falcons, Balmain Tigers RL, Yorkshire Carnegie, Halifax RL
John Bentley made eight appearances for the Lions during their successful 1997 tour to South Africa, including caps in the second and third Tests.
Originally a union player, he made his England debut against Ireland in 1988 aged 21 and played on the summer tour against Australia.
He then switched codes, twice representing Great Britain at league, before returning to union in 1996 and helping Newcastle Falcons win their Premiership title in 1998.
Bentley is best remembered on the 1997 Tour for his magnificent solo try against Gauteng Lions and for his comedic stylings on the DVD Living With Lions.