Jack Watkins

Champion lock gained a reputation as a brilliant cover defender during a long career with Easts. Watkins made his first grade debut in 1913, the year Easts won their third consecutive premiership, and played for Australia the following year in the First Test against England. He had to wait another five years to again represent Australia - on the historic tour of NZ - following the conclusion of World War I. 'Bluey' Watkins played in all four Tests against the Kiwis, and was later chosen on the 1921-22 Kangaroo tour. He played in two Tests against England and was rated by the English press as one of the finest locks to tour their country. A regular fixture in the NSW side during 1919-24, he also played in Easts' 15-12 final win over Souths in 1923 and captained the club in his final season in 1926.