Player Bio

Position	Loosehead Prop
Birthplace	Wigan
International Caps	31

Bio

Known as the ‘gentle giant’ of rugby, Cotton has been involved in all aspect of English rugby; as a player, an administrator and even a kit provider. He brought a professional attitude into amateur rugby union and was meticulous in his physical and technical preparation. His skill and commitment led to him being installed as Sale captain where he was a great inspiration for the team on, and off, the pitch. Cotton made his England debut in 1971 and went on to gain 31 caps before a hamstring injury meant that he was forced into retirement. Despite this set back, Cotton remained active within the rugby world and set up sportswear firm Cotton Traders with Sale team-mate Steve Smith. He also managed the successful 1997 Lions tour to South Africa and it is often said that Cotton played the biggest part of all in England’s World Cup success in 2003, having persuaded Clive Woodward to take the coaching job. In July 2007, Cotton returned to Sale as a member of the club’s board.