Cooke departs Leigh

Leigh assistant coach Paul Cooke has left the club to return to rugby union with Doncaster Knights.

Cooke, 36, was previously with the Knights before joining the Centurions midway through 2016.

Owner Derek Beaumont said: “I would like to thank Paul for his time at our Club and everything he brought to it. He was always very professional and extremely hard working and committed. I had some really good times with him and will always remember his time with us for the positives and in particular getting promoted to Super League.

“With being relegated and (Head Of Rugby) Kieron (Cunningham) replacing me, along with having committed to contracts for a senior physio and head of performance we had to make some changes. I wish Paul every success in his future and thank him for the professional manner in which he concluded our business relationship. I will certainly remain friends with him and he will be welcome at our club any time in the future.”

Cooke played 280 games in Super League for Hull, Hull KR and Wakefield, before cutting his coaching teeth with a player-coach role at Doncaster.

He said: “I understand the business of professional Rugby League. I’m completely sympathetic the position of Leigh Centurions and particularly Derek after relegation.

“I feel confident that Derek, Neil, the rest of the staff and everyone at Leigh Centurions will get the club to the position which reflects the passion and vision of the owner.

“I leave the club on good terms, quite frankly that’s mine and Derek’s way.”