South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Jason Demetriou has revealed the reasons behind his decision to axe star hooker Damien Cook after just one game of the NRL season, and then recall him after just one week on the sidelines.
Cook was a surprise omission from the Rabbitohs’ team to face the Canberra Raiders in Round 2, with Demetriou opting to start with young gun Peter Mam in the number nine jersey.
The move raised eyebrows, given Cook’s status as one of the premier hookers in the NRL. However, Demetriou defended his decision, saying that he felt Cook needed a rest after a heavy pre-season and that Mam deserved a chance to show what he could do.
The Rabbitohs responded to Cook’s omission with a comprehensive 30-12 victory over the Raiders, with Mam impressing in his starting debut.
Demetriou was full of praise for Mam’s performance, but he also admitted that he was impressed by Cook’s response to being dropped.
“I spoke to Damien after the game and he was really positive,” Demetriou said.
“He understood my decision and he was determined to come back and prove himself.
“I think that’s a great attitude to have and it shows that he’s a true professional.”
Demetriou said that Cook had earned his recall to the starting team for the Rabbitohs’ clash with the Sydney Roosters on Friday night.
“Damien is a world-class player and he’s proven that time and time again,” Demetriou said.
“He’s a key part of our team and I’m confident that he’ll come back and have a big game for us.”
Cook will be hoping to make a statement when he returns to the field against the Roosters, and he’ll be keen to prove that he’s still the best hooker in the NRL.
