Mark Gasnier

A strapping centre with an imposing physique, Mark Gasnier, the nephew of the great Reg Gasnier, made a stunning impact in his first grade debut with the Dragons – scoring a try in the upset win over Newcastle before a broken leg ended his debut season. After a consistent season in 2001, in which he represented City Origin, Gasnier was a bolter in the Kangaroo squad but proved his class in scoring a great individual try in his Test debut against the Kumuls in October. The 20-year-old St George junior did not add to his Test career on the shortened Kangaroo Tour at year’s end, missing a start in each of the three Ashes Tests played. Injuries limited his opportunities in 2002-03 but the events of 2004 could well have ended the career of a lesser player. After contemplating a move to England, a change to RU and even retirement Gasnier was in great form leading up to the State of Origin series. Sensationally sacked for misbehaviour whilst in camp before the first match, the giant centre bounced back to score a club record-equalling four tries against W’Tigers and was recalled into the deciding match of the Origin series. Gasnier scored two tries and a goal in NSW’s 36-14 win to clinch the series but broke his collarbone in the match and did not play again that year. A broken hand suffered in a car accident put his 2005 campaign on hold but after contemplating a switch to Rugby in early 2006 he made his name, in his own right at State and national level, as the best attacking centre in the game.