Damien Cook will finish his career where it began, at St George Illawarra.
Cook has been released from the final year of his South Sydney contract, allowing him to take up a two-year deal with the Dragons from 2025. The former NSW hooker will see out the year at the Rabbitohs before making the switch.
Damien Cook has signed a two-year deal with the Dragons from next season.Credit: Getty
The 32-year-old began his NRL career in the Red V, making two first grade appearances before shifting to the Bulldogs and then South Sydney.
Jack Bird, meanwhile, will remain a Dragon for at least another season after taking up the option in his contract for 2025.
There was a mutual option in Bird’s current deal for next season, which needed to be triggered before June 30. The former Blues representative opted to activate it before the deadline to give himself and the club certainty over his future.
Staying put: Jack Bird.Credit: Janie Barrett, SMH
St George Illawarra coach Shane Flanagan has opted to use Bird – who is equally comfortable in the back row – as a centre this season. The 29-year-old is currently sidelined with a knee injury, but could be available for selection for the round 17 clash against the Dolphins.
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