Dragons’ Dummy-Half Duo Set to Continue for Another Season
The St George Illawarra Dragons are poised to maintain their potent one-two punch at dummy half for at least another season, with veteran hooker Damien Cook reportedly on the verge of re-signing for another year. The 34-year-old, who has been in discussions with the club regarding a contract extension, had also been contemplating hanging up his boots at the end of the current campaign.
However, Cook has shown no signs of a significant decline in his performance. His defensive work rate remains a standout asset for the Dragons, and he consistently puts in considerable minutes each game. Reports indicate that Cook has opted to continue his playing career and is in the final stages of negotiations for a new one-year deal, which is expected to be finalised shortly.
This decision means Cook will be lacing up his boots in 2027. While this extended tenure is almost certainly his final year in the National Rugby League (NRL), it marks a significant continuation for a player who debuted way back in 2013 with the Dragons. He then had stints with the Bulldogs in 2014 and 2015 before establishing himself as a key figure for the South Sydney Rabbitohs from 2016 to 2024, where he amassed an impressive 207 games.
Cook’s impressive resume extends beyond club football, boasting 17 appearances for New South Wales in the State of Origin series and four caps for the Kangaroos. His extensive experience provides invaluable leadership and guidance to a young Dragons forward pack. Furthermore, his influence on his fellow dummy-half, Jacob Liddle, has been evident.
Liddle, who re-signed with the Dragons earlier this year, is earmarked to eventually take over the primary hooking duties once Cook retires. In the interim, however, the pairing of Cook and Liddle offers a formidable combination that has emerged as one of the few genuine bright spots for the Red V, despite the club’s broader struggles over the past 18 months.
Strategic Role Changes and Future Prospects
While Cook currently starts games for the Dragons, there’s a possibility he could transition to a bench role before his eventual retirement. This strategic shift is widely considered to be his most effective contribution, allowing him to “take the sting out of the game” before coach Shane Flanagan unleashes the dynamic Liddle.
Liddle experienced a setback early in the season due to injury, missing the opening rounds. He made his return in Round 3 and is expected to continue building his match fitness and refining his game as the season progresses.
With an additional year, Cook, who has played a total of 243 NRL matches, will be on track to approach the significant milestone of 300 games. This continued presence at dummy half provides stability and crucial experience for the Dragons as they navigate their rebuilding phase and look to integrate their younger talent. The partnership between the seasoned veteran and the emerging talent promises to be a key feature for the Dragons in the upcoming seasons.
