Waratahs reject Cronk code-switch claims

Waratahs chief executive Andrew Hore has denied claims the Super Rugby club have made an approach to sign Melbourne Storm playmaker Cooper Cronk.

Cronk recently announced he will end his long stay with the NRL leaders and move to Sydney at the end of the season.

A host of NRL sides have been linked with a swoop for the 33-year-old half-back and reports of interest from the Waratahs have also surfaced.

Hore poured cold water on that speculation soon after Australia coach Michael Cheika welcomed talk of a code-switch for Cronk.

"The NSW Rugby Union has not been approached by anyone on behalf of Cooper Cronk nor have we approached him," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Hore as saying.

"In any decision of this nature there are many variables to consider and, at this time, our key priority is to invest in programs that develop rugby union through our own pathways."

Cheika said of the two-time Dally M Player of the Year: "He's ultra-qualified in rugby league and played rugby in school days.

"If the Waratahs are interested and he wants to play, good on them, get into it because I've no doubt he'd make a success of it.

"Is the Australian Rugby Union going to get involved? No, it's for these guys to work out.

"But it'd be interesting to see him back playing."