He also genuinely intimidates opponents and that is a biggy in RL. He is as tough as nails but is very skilful too. Most forwards have one or the other but not both.

yeah but hes no westwood

OK so here's a downer: Hock's got some frightening form to go with his talent. How long before the salary-cap enhanced Aussies wave a wad under his (and Lenegan's, cos he's under contract) nose?

They already have once, haven't they? Whilst banned.

That is the worry though.

Surprised there wasn't as much reaction to Hock straight after the game....

Tomkins seemed to be the name on everyone's lips straight after, but I went out of the game feeling Hock was the best player on the pitch. I said to me old man numerous times through the game that he was tearing us apart at regular intervals. He's had his critics in the past (and rightly so really) he served his punishment though and has come back a far, far better player.

Would walk into any side in the World for me..

I love what Richard Agar said. Anybody who wants to tackle Gaz Hock has to be prepared to throw themselves under a bus! That with his pace, agility, aggression and ball skills make him as good as any 2nd row in the world for me!

But compare the league to that of 10-15 years ago and he would never have got on any of the top sides.

Apples and Oranges. Ablett is a centre. Haven't you heard?

Is he? I thought he was a 'jack of all trades' type player he's that good?

Apologies. He is indeed a rich man's Panapa.

For me, i'm really happy he has been able to fullfil his potential as a player. I certainly won't forget the vitriol poured from many "holier than thou" people, especially on this board, who were willing to cast him off. But much much more importantly, i hope his personal life is richer, and he is enjoying the benefits of friends and family around him. Hopefully the "friends" who did not stop his behaviour are no longer around, or Gareth has seen just how much more there is to life than the path he was on.

Good luck to you lad, you had a lucky break, make the most of it. Many who slip down that road don't get the breaks you have.