Veteran Cooksley up against Reds
by Huw Turner
March 1, 2001

Former All Black lock Mark Cooksley, he played against the 1993 British Lions, has been recalled to the Chiefs' starting 15 for Saturday evening's Super 12 clash against the Reds in Rotorua.

The experienced Cooksley is one of four changes Mitchell has made to the starting line-up that lost in the opening round ofSuper 12 to the Waratahs in Sydney last weekend.

"I'm giving every player a chance as I test combinations in the first few games while searching for my number-one starting line-up," Mitchell said after he had announced his side after training on Thursday evening.

"Mark's been working hard at training and has earned his place in the starting line-up."

Mitchell revived Cooksley's career after the former All Black failed to make the Chiefs and Waikato NPC squads last season. Cooksley has fought his way back into contention through club rugby and as a member of the Waikato B team coached by Mitchell last year.

The other significant change to the Chiefs starting line-up is Glen Jackson, who surprisingly replaces David Hill at fly half. Openside flanker Marty Holah replaces the injured Duncan Blaikie and powerful centre Keith Lowen has also been given an opportunity against the Reds.

Chiefs: Loki Crichton, Roger Randle, Keith Lowen, Scott McLeod, Bruce Reihana, Glen Jackson, Danny Lee, Deon Muir, Marty Holah, Jonno Gibbes, Mark Cooksley, Royce Willis, Tim Knight, Paul Mitchell, Deacon Manu.

Substitutes: Karl Te Nana, Mark Ranby, Isaac Boss, Keith Robinson, Koula Tukino

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices