Widely regarded as one of the most talented centre three-quarters ever to play the game, Mark Gasnier, the nephew of the great Reg Gasnier, carved out an impressive Rugby League career for himself with the St George Illawarra Dragons, New South Wales Blues and Australia. Now an expert commentator and analyst for Fox Sports, Gasnier continues to make his presence felt in the game.
Gasnier made his NRL debut for the Dragons in 2000. Quickly earning a name for himself as one of the most talented youngsters in the game after an impressive season in 2001, Gasnier made his first appearance for Australia against Papua New Guinea, scoring a try on debut. In 2004, Gasnier would play the first of his 12 State of origin matches for New South Wales, bagging 2 tries on debut. Gasnier would add to his solitary test appearance in 2005 and go on to establish himself as the best centre in game, earning fifteen caps wearing the Green and Gold.
At the peak of his powers in 2008, Gasnier would shock the Rugby League world by announcing he had signed with French Rugby Union, leaving his beloved Dragons. Unlike most code-hoppers before him, Gasnier’s two seasons with Stade Français were an undoubtable success. Gasnier would return to Rugby League midway through the 2010 season, playing a pivotal part in the merger-club’s first ever Grand Final win, scoring the first try in a 32-8 thrashing of the Roosters.
With his trademark ball-carrying style and ability to stand-up then sprint away from opposition centres, Gasnier had Dragons fans shouting “cooking with gas” from the hill at UOW Jubilee Oval for over a decade. After retiring in 2011, Gasnier lined up a post playing career at Fox Sports, where he has remained to this day. Gasnier continues to provide great insight to the modern game, implementing his rugby league knowledge to become one of the most popular commentators on television.
