Discovering the blueprint for Super Rugby success: How Kiss managed to get away from a one-dimensional style
Les Kiss identified the most significant change made since his arrival at the Reds to being his diverse and highly qualified assistants.
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has launched an impassioned defence of Karmichael Hunt, saying sticking by the code-hopper through his drugs controversy last year was the right thing to do.
Hunt stands to become a dual international if, as expected, he makes his Australia debut in the series opener against England at Suncorp Stadium on June 11.
But there were many who felt the 29-year-old should have been kicked out of the sport when he became embroiled in a cocaine scandal last year, staining his previously lilywhite image as a popular athlete who had already conquered two other codes.
Cheika says he understands those contrary viewpoints, but he believes society as a whole should be more forgiving of people like Hunt, who acknowledge their mistakes and genuinely try to move on.
“Forgiveness is also a very Christian value too,” Cheika told reporters.
“I certainly know I’m always forgiving my kids because they’re driving me mad.
“Isn’t the logic to try and help guys to get over errors they make?
“That’s what we’re doing every day, technically, and that’s what we’re trying to do in life.
“Part of the growth of this team is about being better people as well.
“The guy’s working on himself to be better, like we all are.”
Hunt’s early contribution to the Wallabies’ camp on the Sunshine Coast has been limited due to a groin strain he has been unable to shake for some weeks.
But the injury won’t put him in any doubt for the first Test and with Cheika a noted fan, and openings likely at inside centre or fullback, as well as the utility spot on the bench, it’s anticipated Hunt will become Australia’s fourth dual code international since 2001.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
Les Kiss identified the most significant change made since his arrival at the Reds to being his diverse and highly qualified assistants.
The Western Force and Melbourne Rebels will kick off the seventh season of Super Rugby Women’s in Perth. Meanwhile, the Waratahs welcome the Brumbies…
After three losses, the Crusaders are not the powerhouse of previous seasons, while Rugby Australia is set for a new Chief Operations Officer to overcome financial issues.
The benefits of a rugby centralisation model will be streamlined development, a united front, and becoming a rugby powerhouse on the global stage.
After eight rounds of Super Rugby Pacific, there are clear parallels between the table and what we see out on the field. They’re observations…
Three rounds into the new Super Rugby Pacific season, it feels like things are falling into their natural place and every team can pretty…