The NSW Waratahs have recruited with purpose but coach Michael Cheika says it’s a personality transplant that will ensure Groundhog Day doesn’t come around in the 2014 Super Rugby season.
On the eve of his second season in charge, Cheika has refused to back down from his stated goal of a top-two placing for the Waratahs – but stressed that bold statement is an ambition not a prediction.
After all, a star-studded side talking the talk has become an all-too familiar scenario for long-suffering NSW fans, and still the trophy cabinet is bare.
In Israel Folau, NSW possess the most dynamic attacking weapon in Australian rugby.
With halves Kurtley Beale and Nick Phipps returning to their home state and South African enforcer Jacques Potgieter arriving to give the pack a more physical presence, the Waratahs have also shopped better than their Australian Conference rivals.
However, Cheika knows that NSW could have signed every international on the open market and not be guaranteed a win without a fundamental change in thinking.
Cheika is confident he’s removed the soft underbelly and his players have learned what it takes to convert expectation into results.
“I believe quite clearly that the personality of our playing squad and our rugby has changed,” Cheika told AAP.
“There’s a certain liking of hard work now.
“Guys are getting stuck in with no questions asked.
“You don’t just say, ‘I’m going to win’, and it starts happening. They are learning how to become winners.
“They know everything we get we’ve got to earn.
“We’ve got to make sure we show that on every occasion.
“I think we’re definitely ambitious to be up there in the top two. That’s not about predicting anything, it’s about saying that’s our ambition and we’re going to work hard to get there.”
Cheika has been particularly impressed with the pre-season form and aptitude of Beale, who has a point to prove in his return to the Waratahs.
The smart money is on Beale to run the show at No.10, however there remains a strong possibility he could play inside centre to accommodate fellow Wallaby and incumbent playmaker Bernard Foley.
Where Beale and Foley line-up will ultimately dictate the positions played by Adam Ashley-Cooper, Rob Horne and Jono Lance.
Folau as a roaming presence at fullback is the only certainty.
Cheika says he’s comfortable with changing midfield combinations throughout the season, based on the opposition they are facing, and isn’t concerned about too many (playmaker) cooks spoiling the broth.
“One big thing we’re clear on is everyone’s role and responsibility within the team according to the number that’s on their back,” said Cheika.
“Once you’re in the No.10 you have a certain role, or in the 12 or 15 or 11.
“That’s what good winning teams start to do. They load up on what their role is and go hard on doing their job.”
