Cheika focused on game only

NSW Waratahs coach Michael Cheika is too focused on his side’s sudden-death Super Rugby semi-final to be stressing about Kurtley Beale’s playing future.

Cheika is hopeful Beale will remain with the Waratahs in 2015 after hearing the Wallabies star had held further talks with the ARU.

But Cheika also admits swirling speculation that the backline ace could be on his way to the NRL is the least of his worries ahead of the Tahs’ do-or-die semi-final on Saturday week against either the Brumbies, Chiefs or Highlanders.

“All I’m interested right now is the semi-final. That is it,” Cheika said after Waratahs training on Thursday.

“I don’t really care about what else is happening, to be honest. All the other stuff can wait til later.

“Other people can worry about it. I’m sure they’re doing what they’re doing, but right now I’m not even interested in it.”

With Des Hasler trying to lure Beale to Canterbury, Cheika’s chief concern was knowing the classy playmaker’s head was in the right space for the Waratahs’ grand final qualifier at Allianz Stadium in nine days’ time.

“What I’ve liked about Beale is, with all this stuff going on, he’s just kept so level and is training hard and it’s not even bothered him at all, which is very good,” Cheika said.

“It shows a really good state of mind of the player and I think it’s been reflected in his performances. There’s no doubt about it.”

Cheika was pleased to hear that Beale had had further talks with the ARU this week.

“So it’s hopefully heading in the right direction,” he said.

“(But) I’m the same as I’ve always been; I’m never comfortable until a signature’s there on the paper.

“Even then, you’ve got to worry sometimes.”

Stay up to date with the latest sports news
Follow our social accounts to get exclusive content and all the latest sporting news!