Pirates CEO, Rod Coward, told the local media of his excitement at both signings as the story broke. Strong personal recommendations played an active part in the Pirates tracking down their men, and both players come with a wealth of experience despite their relative youth.

Peter Cook joins from Harlequins but has also played for Leicester, Bedford and Nottingham. He boasts international honours for England at Under 16, Under 18, and Under 21 level.

Whatling arrives in Cornwall after three seasons at Sixways with Worcester. He captained the England Under 21 team during the 2005 World Championships in Argentina.

With the squad due to assemble for pre-season training shortly and a mouth-watering friendly lined up against Leicester Tigers at Camborne on August 4th (kick-off 5pm), expectation is already high amongst the Pirates faithful.

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