A New South Wales State of Origin representative prop, he previously played for Canberra Raiders, Melbourne Storm, Newcastle Knights, Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors and Widnes Vikings.

Cross, also known as "The Boss", had an explosive start to his National Rugby League career with a suspension for striking following his début match in 2003.

[2] In August, 2008, Cross was named in the preliminary 46-man Kangaroos squad for the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.

On 11 March 2016, Cross was named the head coach of the New South Wales Rugby League Women's side.

[12][13] During his tenure at Ipswich, the Jets encountered heavy defeats including going winless through the 2023 Queensland Cup season.