Star back Drew Mitchell believes the NSW Waratahs can no longer afford to let criticisms of their style prove a distraction in the coming Super Rugby season.
The ‘Tahs enter their 2012 campaign with high expectations as they look to build on their finals exit at the hands of the Blues in Auckland last year.
Lingering complaints of NSW playing a dour style of rugby came to a head during the season, prompting the franchise to hold a forum in which members of the public were able to vent their frustrations.
But Wallabies star Mitchell said regardless of how the Waratahs opted to play under new coach Michael Foley, they needed to focus on internal expectations over external ones in 2012.
“Everyone has an opinion about what style of game we should play but I think it’s really important that whatever way we do decide to play, for the 22 guys and the squad outside that, to really commit to it,” Mitchell said.
“I guess in previous seasons we’ve been guilty of changing it to please others and we’ve just got to make sure we stick to what we think is going to get the job done.
“If we’re really clear on that and we’re all on the same page, we’re a better chance of going out and executing it rather than guys acting in isolation and us changing it for whatever reasons.”
Mitchell, a member of the Waratahs’ eight-man leadership group announced this week, didn’t buy into suggestions NSW should try to emulate the Queensland Reds’ style but said his side could learn from the reigning champions.
“The thing that Queensland did is they were consistent and all on the same page and they stuck to it,” Mitchell said.
“If you ask me about their style, that’s something we need to be a bit better at.”
The 27 year-old believes he remains a chance of playing in the Waratahs’ season opener against the Reds at ANZ Stadium on February 25 as he recovers from a pre-season recurrence of the ankle injury that ended his 2011 season.
“It’s still an ongoing thing … but we’re on track,” Mitchell said.
“If not to start the season, very close to, but certainly we’re aiming to push for his first game.”
