Axed star opens up on 'draining' Souths drama

Damien Cook has opened up on his "draining" demotion to NSW Cup, admitting there was "a lot of tension" surrounding the shock decision.

In one of the most surprising calls of the season, South Sydney axed their long-time hooker for a clash with Cronulla in round six – a game which they ended up losing.

Cook is one of the club's most experienced players, having made 189 appearances in the top grade since moving to Redfern in 2016, as well as representing NSW on 17 occasions and Australia four times.

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However, the 32-year-old was sent back to reserve grade in a huge call from embattled coach Jason Demetriou and has now admitted the call had a significant impact.

"There was a obviously lot of tension about it – quite draining by the time I got to game day, just how the week played out," Cook told Sky Sports Radio.

"There was so much noise around last week. It has been building a lot last week. The way JD has handled himself has been great too, you wouldn't think anything of it.

"That result on the weekend, I'm not saying it was enough, but it's great to see that the noise has dropped off and the media has dropped off a bit.

"We can just focus on what we need to do. We know we've got the talent here and the team here to get the job done."

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Cook helped the Bunnies' second-string side to a 24-12 win over Newtown, crossing for a try in the second half and finishing with 128 run metres.

The livewire dummy-half said he owed it to the Cup players to turn up and perform.

"I've played a lot of NSW Cup … I understand what it's about," Cook said.

"I understand being in that position as NSW Cup players, that's what they live for. You get these guys that come back from grade, you want to make sure you do them proud as well. There was a lot of motivation there just to make sure I didn't let those guys down.

"Some of them have to go to work all day then go to training. I have to make sure I go back and do a good job for them. That's what motivated me on the weekend."

Cook is in the mix for an NRL recall after South Sydney's round seven bye, which will see them take on the Storm on Anzac Day.