Chris Cook starts ‘new chapter’ at Bristol Bears

David Skippers

Bristol Bears have announced the signing of scrum-half Chris Cook, who will join the club ahead of the 2020/21 campaign from rivals Bath.

Cook joins Harry Randall, Andy Uren and England U20s Academy scrum-half Blake Boyland in the squad for next season.

28-year-old Cook – who came through the Bath Rugby Academy – has made over 140 appearances for the Blue, Black and White.

“Chris is an experienced Premiership performer and he adds real depth and quality to the scrum-half position,” said Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam.

“What also impressed us about Chris is that he’s genuinely excited about the journey we are on as a club. He’s looking forward to getting on our Bears bus and being part of our environment and adding value to keep the bus moving forward.

“To have four English qualified scrum-halves competing for a starting berth is a real positive and reflects our Bears vision.”

A product of Millfield School, Cook has made 18 appearances for Bath so far this season and represented England Sevens in the summer of 2019.

He added: “The opportunity to challenge myself at Bristol is one that excites me and it’s clear from the outside that it’s a club moving in a really positive direction.

“I’m grateful to Bath Rugby for everything they have done for my career and I’d like to sincerely thank the coaches, players and staff for their support over many years.

“It’s great to be staying in the West Country and I’m looking forward to the new chapter at Ashton Gate with the Bears.”

Bristol