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The Waratahs coaching and management staff have again demonstrated that they are not able to make appropriate decisions.
It is mid year and with it, comes the Bledisloe and the Tri Nations tournaments. The Wallabies are generating the stories. So, why an article about the NSW Waratahs?
We hear from the Waratahs that they are frantically looking to replace Timana Tahu, and that the search is complicated by most Australian outside backs already signed for season 2010. Further, the Waratahs are considering combining the cash to bid for one outside back marquee player.
We heard the same bleating when they lost Dunning and Kepu to serious injuries a few months prior to the 2009 Super 14’s commencement.
This is yet another example of the Waratahs coaching and management team’s poor decision making based on a cover your arse by recruiting big names rather than take a perceived risk with a younger player. Further, it demonstrates not appreciating the:
– Ability of young players to step up;
– Wealth of talent that should already be in the Waratahs academy squad;
– Wealth of talent running around in club rugby;
– Long term insult and disillusionment that overlooked players suffer when an import arrives unnecessarily;
– Proven track record of young players in League, AFL and Soccer;
The Waratahs have first pick of a massive number of locally grown rugby players. These players know the game, its nuances, its culture and the Waratahs as an organisation. They can all play multiple positions. They remain in situ and so are supported by their own friends and family networks.
These players play open attractive rugby every weekend in clubland. Here are a few: McCabe, Andrew Smith, Grant, Josh Holmes (as an outside back), Azar (Easts), Rathbone, Shortis (Norths), Kellam (Woodies), Wright (‘Wicks) or any one of a plethora from Wests Pirates. My first choice would be Grant from Eastwood.
Some of these have been snaffled by other Super 14 teams, but others are just waiting patiently. You can probably get 3 for the price of one! And they bring excitement, enthusiasm and flair.
The current Waratahs management are still demonstrating that they are not up to the job and have not addressed the poor strategy and tactics that characterised the 2009 season. It’s not too late.
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.