Bennett braced for nightmare rep season

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WAYNE Bennett is braced for the poisoned chalice of Brisbane's flying start to the NRL premiership with a "nightmare'' representative season that could feature up to nine Broncos.

As Bennett's Broncos tonight head to Kogarah Oval to face St George Illawarra and stretch their winning streak to six games, he was facing the fact his team would soon by decimated by a rep schedule that could threaten Brisbane's quest for a top-four finish.

Maroons Justin Hodges, Corey Parker, Sam Thaiday and Matt Gillett are certain to play major roles through the Origin season and possibly be selected for Australia next weekend, while Ben Hunt is a Test incumbent, Josh McGuire an Origin contender and Dale Copley a possible bolter.

Justin Hodges during a Broncos training.. Pic Darren England. Source: News Corp Australia

Front-rower Adam Blair, who is close to a comeback from corked thigh injury, starred in New Zealand's Four Nations triumph last year while Kiwis second-rower Alex Glenn is back to his best as he plays for his future at the Broncos.

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Bennett said Parker, Thaiday and Glenn had consistently been Brisbane's best over the opening six rounds and the Broncos needed to keep those performance levels high tonight against St George Illawarra and next week against Parramatta before the mid-year disruption.

"It will be a nightmare,'' Bennett said. "We have two weeks of clear air, this week and next week, then after that the season goes into meltdown for about two months.

"It's just a completely different season.

"(After the bye) you won't see the same team probably for the next two months you've seen at all the clubs who will be heavily affected by (rep season).''

The Brocnos will be withuot Corey Parker during the Origin period. Pic Darren England. Source: News Corp Australia

Once again the rep season appears to be the biggest obstacle Brisbane must conquer to turn a bright start into a top-four finish. In 2012 they were 7-1 before fading faster than curtains during daylight saving.

If Bennett can navigate the rep period in reasonable shape the club could live up to the latest betting markets which have Brisbane equal favourites for the minor premiership with the last two champions Souths and the Roosters.

Bennett said he had offered NRL administrators a solution on how to fix the rep season, but despite constant claims the game was trying to improve player welfare they continued to ignore a major strain on the elite stars of the game.

"It will always raise its head again,'' Bennett said. "I know what the solution is and I've talked to the administration about the solution, it's just a case of what they will do about it.

"It's really in their court but I know everybody is going on about player welfare and nothing changes.''

Darius Boyd is a marginal chance of playing Origin. Photographer: Liam Kidston. Source: News Corp Australia

The Broncos do have greater depth in the squad this year to cope with the inevitable rep drain. Bennett has given more game time to his fringe forwards such as Jarrod Wallace and Mitch Dodds.

Bennett also expects Darius Boyd to be back playing in less than six weeks, making the Test winger a marginal chance of playing the first Origin clash on May 27 but more likely to return for Brisbane's May 25 clash with Newcastle, their only NRL game this year without Queensland stars.

"Look I don't know about Origin I, I don't know how far away that is and I haven't looked at it, but (Boyd) has been remarkable.

"He is such a dedicated athlete. He is on track to come back before the six months is done, that will be a miracle in itself.

"He is doing everything now it's just a bit more time.''

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Rookie Roo not fazed by being dropped

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TEENAGE star Sione Mata'utia says he is not fazed by the prospect of having to play NSW Cup if Newcastle coach Rick Stone opts to go with specialist hooker Tyler Randell on the bench at the expense of him against Parramatta on Sunday.

Less than six months after becoming Australia's youngest ever Kangaroo, Mata'utia has featured in every game for the Knights this season, starting at fullback and on the wing in two matches and coming off the bench on the other four occasions with Stone using skipper Kurt Gidley as a makeshift hooker just to accommodate the 18 year old in his squad.

Tyler Randell takes on the Panthers defence. Source: Getty Images

But while there has been nothing wrong with his form, there are suggestions Mata'utia will be squeezed out this week with Gidley to play exclusively at fullback and Randell to deputise for hooker Adam Clydsdale.

Adding further weight to the speculation, the NRL and NSW Cup squads trained together on Thursday with Mata'utia part of the NSW Cup contingent.

But while Stone is yet to tell him officially where he will be playing, Mata'utia claimed going back to NSW Cup would not worry him.

"Going down a grade doesn't mean anything to me," he said.

"I've still got to wear that Knights jumper with pride and play hard for it.

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"I love going back and training today with the reggies was good. I get a bit of confidence where I can talk a bit and guide the boys around."

The incumbent Kangaroos winger, who is no chance of holding onto his place in the Australian side but could get a Country Origin call up, was philosophical when asked about the selection of the Test side coming up.

Mata'utia said:

"I haven't really been thinking about it. Watching the NRL teams now, all the players that were missing last year are back playing footy every weekend.

"The reason why I played was injuries so the players are back.

"It's all good. I'm still here playing for my club and if I do get a Country jersey it would be good and hopefully I can get a crack at that but if not, I'll play every weekend here."

Sione Mata'utia says he's not fazed by playing in the NSW Cup. Source: Getty Images

Stone's plan for Mata'utia could hinge on the fitness of five-eighth Jarrod Mullen, who along with backrower Tariq Sims, is being hampered by a shoulder injury.

Both Mullen and Sims trained yesterday but weren't involved in any contact and will need to prove themselves during the captain's run on Saturday morning.

If Mullen is forced out, Mata'utia would get a reprieve.

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Johns: Bennett’s the master of manipulation

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Wayne Bennett is known as one of the finest man managers in rugby league history. He's famous for knowing his players inside out and understanding how to get the best out of them.

But man management is not just about a shoulder to lean on or a comforting arm around you in a time of need.

Case in point, Sam Thaiday.

Bennett's return to Brisbane has coincided with Thaiday being put under the blowtorch.

From round one, Thaiday has had his attitude and desire questioned from "sources within the Broncos."

Sam Thaiday and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves face off during. Source: Getty Images

Thaiday has been benched and the media alerted that Thaiday's future at the Broncos was in doubt and that his form would be closely monitored.

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We all know who these "sources within the Broncos" are. Well played Wayne.

Last Friday night Thaiday exploded onto the park and put together one of his finest performances against the Sydney Roosters.

Thaiday's aggression was the cornerstone of the Broncos' victory.

Bennett has no plans of getting rid of Thaiday, otherwise the "sources within the Broncos" would have said the Broncos were under severe salary cap pressure and the retention of Thaiday was appearing unlikely.

The questioning of the Queensland legend's work ethic and desire was a personal attack, designed around reigniting his fire.

It did exactly that.

Sam Thaiday and Wayne Bennett during training — Photo Steve Pohlner Source: News Corp Australia

But turning up the heat on Thaiday was about more than just getting Sam back to his old self, it was about putting the whole playing roster on notice. Actually, it put the whole Brisbane club on notice.

The Brisbane Broncos had lost their way and putting one of the club's most experienced and decorated players on notice was a signal that much higher standards were again expected from everyone in this organisation.

Suddenly the Broncos have won their last five in a row and sit top of the table. Yep, the Brisbane Broncos are getting their swagger back.

When the Broncos were the dominating force right through the 90s, they were an arrogant bunch.

There was an arrogance right through the organisation — they were the best and they knew it.

You'd play against the Broncos and a young rookie who'd only played a handful of first grade games felt the right to sledge opposition players who were 200 game veterans.

Even the trainers would give you a bit of lip if they had a chance.

Andrew Gee and Paul Harragon & Brisbane Bronco trade blows — both were sent to sin bin. Source: News Corp Australia

I remember Knights v Broncos in Newcastle 1995, and suddenly a brawl breaks out early in the match. Our skipper Paul Harragon squares off against Brisbane's enforcer, Andrew Gee.

They were trading blows when suddenly Broncos trainer Kelvin Giles runs into the thick of the action, grabs Chief from behind, holds him while Andrew Gee lands 4-5 straight right hands to the Chief's chin.

That was the Broncos. They played by their own rules because they believed they deserved to.

I miss that Broncos!

So do the people of Brisbane, but they're coming back.

On Friday they take on a team who are suddenly rediscovering the better version of themselves, the Dragons.

After the Dragons lost their first two competition games, plenty of drama unfolded. The Old "Oust Doust" banners were dragged from under the house, as fans with a whiff of a disastrous season in the air demanded answers to the question: "Where is this club headed?"

There was an early season crisis looming and they needed a win, fast.

An Oust Doust banner at Oki Jubilee Stadium in Kogarah. Source: News Corp Australia

They got one, a tough, gritty, come-from-behind victory over the Raiders 22-20.

It wasn't the type of win that gave you the feeling they were going to go on to win four in a row, but that's exactly what's happened.

The Dragons have got better every week.

The coach Paul McGregor deserves huge credit. He kept his cool, tinkered with a few things and has rightfully been rewarded.

Their defensive effort is at the core of their success.

Nothing gauges attitude like defensive energy and the Dragons have plenty. They are the NRL's best defensive team. In attack they've loosened their rigid structure which in the past put them in a creative straight jacket.

They allow themselves to jump into a bit of ad lib football while not losing discipline.

Benji Marshall's form is grabbing headlines, and while everyone continues to focus on Benji's flicks and tricks, it's his willingness to play to a plan and use the fundamentals of direct ball playing, which is at the centre of his revival.

Keeping Benji's focus away from flash highlight reel moments is critical to the ongoing success of the team.

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Rugby league nations still growing

James Tedesco is one of a number of NRL stars to represent Italy at international level. Source: AAP

RUGBY league secured a significant victory on the world stage on Thursday, with the game officially recognised as a legitimate sport in Italy.

While Italy competed in the most recent World Cup, with Aidan Guerra in their team, the sport has not been recognised as a stand-alone sport in that country since the 1960s, when the all-powerful Italian Rugby Union banned any player sound to have participated in the 13-a-side code.

Until Thursday, league was merely a breakaway version of union in Italy — a rebel code not officially recognised by the powers that be.

Finally, sensibly, that has all changed.

The international game will get another major boost in a fortnight — but this time, a little closer to home — when southeast Queensland hosts a "representative round" at Suncorp Stadium and Cbus Super Stadium on May 1-2.

On the Friday night, Brisbane will host the Test match between Australia and New Zealand, as well as the women's international between the Jillaroos and the Kiwi Ferns.

Then, on the Saturday, the Gold Coast will host a Test double-header, with games between Tonga and Samoa, and PNG and Fiji, as well as the Junior Kangaroos and Junior Kiwis.

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RIVALRY: Aussie-Kiwi Tests should be as big as Origin

The Pacific Tests between Tonga and Samoa are a great sign of rugby league's development. Source: Getty Images

The Pacific Tests are another terrific step forward for the development of the game in those countries.

As we saw with Samoa's performance in the Four Nations last year and during the 2013 World Cup, the best way for these developing nations to improve their performances is by having greater exposure to quality matches against quality opposition.

The number of players from the Pacific nations playing in the NRL will undoubtedly lift standards, but the long-term development being done by rugby league in these countries is where the real gains will be made.

The inclusion of the PNG Hunters into Queensland's Intrust Super Cup was a massive step forward, just as Fiji's inclusion in the NSW Cup from next year will accelerate development there.

Hopefully, if the right financial backers can be found, Samoa and Tonga can follow suit with a team in one of the state leagues in the next few years.

But the representative round could also pay big dividends for the gam in Australia as well.

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The scheduling of the representative round should be the first step in creating an expanded representative window, that could include State of Origin.

Stand-alone Origin games have been suggested for a long time as a way to minimise the impact on the NRL clubs that lose players to the interstate series, the workload on players, and the dilution of the NRL competition because of the number of players being stood down because of representative duties.

But for a true representative window to work, Origin cannot do it alone.

Test matches like this Pacific series, Tests involving England and New Zealand, and perhaps even an international Nines tournament could be looked at as a way to beef up a potential representative schedule for television audiences and venues across the region.

Given more opportunity, the development of the international game will continue to grow, and that is great news for rugby league.

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Bennett drops wrestle to go on defensive

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BRISBANE are trying to lead a defensive revolution of the NRL with Wayne Bennett tossing out the wrestling textbook and urging his players to "hit and stick" to gain dominance in defence.

The proof of Bennett's madness is how the Broncos have emerged as one of the grittiest teams in the NRL competition over the opening six weeks to create a defensive wall that is the envy of the league.

The Broncos and Dragons have been the two most impressive defensive outfits to start the season with the two clubs ranked at the top of the charts for goal-line defence.

Brisbane is ranked No.1 for fewest tries conceded from inside 20m at just nine, one ahead of the Dragons who are ranked No.2.

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The Broncos average just one try conceded inside 20m per 20 tackles, while the Dragons are more efficient at one try per 25 tackles.

They are the two leading teams for tries conceded by line breaks with the Dragons No.1 with just eight and the Broncos No.2 with 12.

The Dragons have largely bolted to the top of the charts in the past three weeks where they've conceded a total of two tries in wins over Manly, Newcastle and Canterbury.

Bennett said his team had changed their defensive focus in 2015 on the back of the new wrestling guidelines, opting for strong contact rather than the "cuddling" method of holding players up.

Wayne Bennett talks to his troops at Broncos training. Source: News Corp Australia

"The rules have changed the game, you just can't have three guys laying on the ground anymore. You're better off hitting and sticking than falling down on top of them and have to get off quickly," Bennett said.

"We're just trying to get less in the tackle but be more effective with our tackle technique.

"There is nothing scientific about defence, it's all about what you want to achieve with your teammates and how you want to play for each other and that's what (the Dragons) are doing really well.

"We're a pretty good defensive team right now as well … I'm pretty pleased with where we are at defensively."

Bennett said the crowd reaction to the way Brisbane muscled up against the Roosters last week showed fans wanted to see more old school hits and less dancing.

"The crowd loved it. Every time there was a good hit below the ball they just got into it," he said.

"The fans showed that is what they want as well rather than the other way of just cuddling each other."

League Immortal Andrew Johns noticed Brisbane's driving technique in their win and believes it is putting pressure on the opposition in a new way.

"All Brisbane's technique is different," Johns said.

"A lot of teams are doing the catching and holding but they drive in with the shoulder and it's no coincidence it forced a lot of errors.

"When the shoulder goes at the ball, it's a bit of old school from Brisbane and I love the way they're defending."

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Falloon focused on finding form

Beau Falloon has vowed to get back to his best for the Titans. Source: Richard Gosling / News Corp Australia

GOLD Coast hooker Beau Falloon has vowed to make amends for his frustrating start to the NRL season and help lead the Titans to a breakthrough home victory against Penrith.

Falloon has endured a difficult season with any momentum he planned to carry over from his Titans player of the year award last year crushed by repeated disruptions.

First a hamstring strain cost him appearances in the first trial game or Nines tournament.

Next were the cocaine charges that resulted in him and four teammates being stood down for the first two weeks of the NRL season by the Titans.

WINNER: Douglas aims to set record straight

Falloon struggled as off-field pressures got to him. Source: News Corp Australia

Two games later Falloon was suspended again, this time copping two weeks for a lifting tackle charge that was his second suspension for the offence within a year.

Falloon was also lucky to escape a ban last year for an offence against the Storm, saved only because the tackled player landed on his arm despite being up-ended.

Now as he prepares to return against the Panthers, Falloon has vowed to tidy up his tackling technique and deliver the performances on the field that last year earned selection for NSW City Origin.

"It's been frustrating, I haven't had the best start to the year," Falloon said.

"It's been really disruptive but I've been doing some really hard training. The fitness is not a problem. I'm fit and raring to go.

"The suspension from that tackle didn't come at the best time. I just need to put all that behind me now and focus on stringing some really good games together.

"I'm planning on staying on the field a bit longer than the two weeks this time."

Falloon said as a smaller man he'd developed a tackling technique in his junior career of going lower on the big men and lifting them off the ground to halt their momentum.

Over the past fortnight he has worked extensively with coach Neil Henry and defensive co-ordinator Rohan Smith to develop a technique that is safer within the rules of the game.

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"I've got a bit of a not a bad technique, but just an old habit you can't do anymore," he said.

"I've been working on that the last two weeks so hopefully I can put that into practice and hopefully I don't get charged anymore with lifting tackles.

"One of my habits I have is trying to get under them and I tend to lift. That is what gets me in trouble.

"I've got to get it out of my game, which I'm trying really hard too."

It will be Falloon's second game alongside rookie five-eighth Kane Elgey but he said the 21-year-old was showing positive signs of being quality playmaker for the club.

"He has come along really good. He is out there playing his role and he is a good exciting young kid. Hopefully he just keeps building on his game every week," Falloon said.

"He is only young so he is just going out there and doing his job. That is all we expect of him. "He doesn't have to set the world on fire or anything like that. As long as he goes out and does his job that is the main thing."

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Raiders land Sezer, Tamou could be next

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CANBERRA coach Ricky Stuart proved himself every inch a Raider, poaching Titans five-eighth Aidan Sezer and then locking his sights on Cowboys Test prop James Tamou.

Gold Coast's $4 million pursuit of Daly Cherry-Evans has cost them Sezer, who will on Friday sign a $1.5 million deal with the Raiders after the Titans failed in their last-ditch bid to keep him.

The Titans only tabled a formal offer to Sezer on Friday morning but it was too little, too late.

Stuart had been privately wooing Sezer for weeks when many thought the Bankstown junior was mulling over potential moves to the Roosters or Sea Eagles.

Aidan Sezer of the Titans is tackled during the round five NRL match between the Gold Coast Titans and the Brisbane Broncos at Cbus Super Stadium on April 3, 2015 on the Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

Sezer did not return calls on Thursday night but his manager, Sam Ayoub, said the five-eighth and wife Raziye were not desperate to return to Sydney.

"Ricky had a number of chats with him. They made a good offer and it's a club that's building and on the rise," Ayoub said.

"That's nothing against the other clubs that have shown interest but it's a club that's appealed to him. They're a good club that's been down a little and they're recovering."

Titans CEO Graham Annesley declined to comment given the signing had not been confirmed and Ayoub said the Gold Coast only tabled an offer at the eleventh hour.

"We only received an offer from the Gold Coast (yesterday) morning," he said. "He's got a really good relationship with Neil (coach Henry).

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"He's not unhappy there. He's bought a property at Palm Beach.

"There was an opportunity for him to move on.

"The Titans have a bit invested in that area and weren't prepared to go to the dollars Aidan deserves going forward."

Stuart, already an enemy of the state as a star half-back and then successful coach with NSW, will not endear himself to fans north of the border if he backs up his Sezer coup with the signature of Tamou.

Despite being contracted to the Cowboys until the end of 2016, Tamou has fielded inquiries from three rival NRL clubs as speculation intensifies he is mulling over a release on compassionate grounds.

Cowboys hierarchy are aware Tamou has options and will consider granting a release, but will not subsidise any deal that sees him playing against North Queensland next season.

James Tamou takes on the Broncos defence. Source: Getty Images

Ayoub, who also manages Tamou, confirmed the Raiders had inquired about Tamou's"contractual position".

And while he insists the approach was not formal, The Courier-Mail understands it is the first step in Canberra's hope of snaring the 113kg prop Stuart turned into an Origin enforcer.

In 2012, Tamou was aligned with New Zealand when Stuart — then coach of the Blues — convinced him to defect to NSW and Australia.

Stuart was tight-lipped yesterday, but made no secret of his admiration for a player he helped mentor into one of the NRL's top props two years ago before Tamou's struggles with a neck injury.

"I keep hearing we are interested," Stuart said.

"Look ... James is a great player and I enjoyed coaching him in State of Origin.

"At the moment, there's been no formal communication. We can't fit him into the salary cap at the moment, but there are always balls up in the air at any club.

Ricky Stuart says the Raiders can't afford Tamou at the moment. Source: News Corp Australia

"Don Furner (Raiders CEO) looks at the salary cap here and that's fine by me."

It is understood family is a key factor in Tamou's possible move to the Raiders.

His partner Brittney McGlone is close to giving birth to the couple's second child and has links to Canberra, with her family owning a 269-hectare farm at Braidwood, 87km southeast of the nation's capital.

McGlone previously trained at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra and it is believed she still has career ambitions in track-and-field.

Tamou's wife, Brittney McGlone wants to continue her athletics career. Source: News Corp Australia

Tamou began the season slowly after neck surgery but the Cowboys are determined not to lose him after his outstanding display against Penrith last Monday night.

The loss of Sezer has added even more intrigue to who will partner Cherry-Evans next year at the Titans.

Rookie half-back Kane Elgey is also off-contract and being heavily pursued by Manly, who have lost Cherry-Evans and Kieran Foran to Parramatta.

Elgey is expected to tour Manly's headquarters next week after he knocked back a three-year contract extension from the Titans.

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Lockyer to ensure Thaiday stays at Broncos

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THE Titans have ruled out chasing Sam Thaiday as the influence of Darren Lockyer and a $250,000 NRL allowance emerge as key factors in saving the Test star's career at the Broncos.

Thaiday has three more games, including tonight's clash with the Roosters at Suncorp Stadium, to convince Broncos coach Wayne Bennett he is worth retaining beyond this season.

The Courier-Mail can reveal Brisbane's recruitment and retention committee, of which Lockyer is a key member, will leverage the NRL's salary cap laws to ensure Thaiday remains at the Broncos.

Darren Lockyer and Sam Thaiday. Source: News Limited

The notion of Thaiday taking a pay cut to remain at Red Hill fuelled talk he would join the Titans but Gold Coast says they have no plans to table an offer.

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While Bennett largely dictates the Broncos' hiring and firing, his opinions on recruitment are shaped by trusted advisers. They include Lockyer and list manager Peter Nolan, who are part of a retention team that will use the NRL's long-serving player allowance to table a palatable offer for Thaiday.

A Sydney rival has lodged interest in Thaiday, but Lockyer last night strongly indicated the 29-year-old has a future under Bennett.

Lockyer can empathise with Thaiday after benefiting from NRL salary cap allowances in his final years at the Broncos.

"Sam is giving himself the best chance of remaining a Bronco," Lockyer said.

"From the outside looking in, Sam has responded well to the challenge the coach has given him.

"All he can control is his performances on the field and the training paddock. The rest is out of his control.

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"At this point in your career the best deal should not be judged by the biggest number put on the table. Pathways in his post-playing days should be a big consideration.''

Under the code's recently-amended veteran's allowance rule, clubs are eligible for incremental salary cap allowances depending on a player's continuous years of service.

Thaiday and 15-season stalwart Corey Parker are the Broncos who can benefit most from the discount.

Thaiday is playing his 13th consecutive year at Red Hill, meaning he qualifies for a maximum $250,000 dispensation for any salary lodged with the NRL's salary cap auditor.

That enables the Broncos to pay Thaiday less under the salary cap while rewarding the former skipper for his long service. Factor in the high-level backing of Lockyer, who won a premiership with Thaiday in 2006, and the Maroons ace appears safe at the Broncos.

Wayne Bennett says he's happy with how Sam Thaiday is progressing. Pic Darren England. Source: News Corp Australia

Bennett was tight-lipped on Thursday, saying: "I couldn't be more pleased with Sam's efforts right now but he understands my position. There's a mixture of players that we have to make decisions on and we haven't done that yet.''

Thaiday's agent George Mimis said Thaiday had been a loyal to the Broncos and he hoped to open discussions with the club over the next few weeks.

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Tallis: Coote’s a smart choice

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GT'S Socialites have been dealt a harsh double blow this week.

I suspect most NRL SuperCoaches are facing a similar issue thanks to a glut of injuries and the fallout from the game between Canterbury and Souths, but that solidarity doesn't make it any easier for me to take.

My two grievances come in the form of an injury and a suspension as a result of last Friday's drama.

First I lost Canterbury's Brett Morris to a hamstring injury for about three months and then the news came that his captain James Graham will be serving two suspensions for four weeks.

While we continue to reign supreme in the head-to-head stakes, this is not great news for GT's Socialites.

Jack Bird celebrates after scoring against the Roosters. Source: Getty Images

I thought I was pretty lucky to already have "must-buy" cheapie Jack Bird in my ranks but now I've had to do some scrambling and trading anyway.

SUPERCOACH LAST WORD: Discount guns

I have recruited former Panther and blossoming Cowboy Lachlan Coote to replace Morris.

The North Queensland No. 1 has played three games this season and is on track to make some good money over the coming rounds.

He's only averaging 40.33 points at the moment but as he and the Cowboys get stronger, I think his points will get a lot better.

After spending a fair amount of time in rehab and on the recovery table, he is certainly striking up a solid combination with Johnathan Thurston and Michael Morgan.

He is a smart player and really showed his ability against his old club last week, earning 59 points.

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With my other trade, I have booted Graham for Trent Merrin.

Merrin is one of the top 10 players so far this year and it is my priority to start getting as many guns as I can.

I have Ethan Lowe, Corey Parker, Cameron Smith and Simon Mannering already from the top 10, with Merrin a great addition.

This will also leave me with $184,100 in the bank for next week, meaning I should be able to continue picking up top players.

Hopefully my captain, JT, will also start to make his way into those top 10 players.

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Free Bird the man to help Sharks fly

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SO often when a club is enduring the most difficult of times, it opens a door of opportunity for a young star to emerge. For the Cronulla Sharks this period of adversity has unearthed Jack Bird.

Bird was all class against top notch opposition last Sunday.

Normally an outside back, Bird was shifted into five-eighth and his speed, skill, but more than anything, his confidence, was exactly what the Sharkies needed.

Tough too! His backstory will reinforce that.

Bird suffers from a severe arthritic condition that requires fortnightly injections to keep the pain at bay and control his arthritis.

The injections are expensive and the working class family relied on the help of community fundraising to ensure young Jack got the medical help he needed.

Sharks skipper Paul Gallen was the star attraction at that fundraiser for the Bird family and four years later Gallen once again championed Bird's cause by going to Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan and pleading with him to put the kid in first grade.

Last Sunday Bird repaid his skipper. And from his first touch you could see he was a little special.

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SuperCoach Last Word: Discount guns

Jack Bird celebrates scoring in the Sharks' shock win over the Roosters. Source: Getty Images

The way he moved, the way he held the football and held himself at the point of defensive contact.

His first big moment came in the 32nd minute, off an inside ball from Luke Lewis. Bird exploded into the open field and found himself one-on-one with Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.

Bird didn't hesitate. Instead he challenged Roger to a sprint for the corner post…..with ball looping low in his right grip, he looked every bit the footballer and athlete.

Then he showed his strength, timing and confidence to put a mighty fend into Sheck's chest which left the Roosters star flat on his face, as Bird smiled and slammed the ball over the line.

Five minutes later he showed toughness and talent when surrounded by Roosters. Seemingly trapped in-goal, Bird stepped and accelerated into the teeth of the Roosters kick chase and surged himself into the field of play by an inch.

Only minutes before half-time, it was a mighty play.

With the Sharks leading 4-0 they needed another boost after half-time to cement their belief, and Bird provided again.

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On the last tackle, 20 metres out, he skimmed across the defence and convinced Roosters winger Daniel Tupou that he was about to throw a long ball. Tupou raced up, Bird kicked behind and Valentine Holmes collected the ball for an easy try.

Young Jack was having a blinder, but how would he go with the game on the line?

In the NRL, when the scoreline is tight and the clock is showing only minutes to go, the game becomes a completely different beast.

Like playing $5 hands at the Blackjack table, then suddenly you're sitting in the High Rollers.

What you do, good or bad, has far greater consequences.

Here's how Bird handled his first trip to the High Rollers.

Bird is mobbed by his teammates after scoring. Source: Getty Images

Cronulla's 14-0 lead was evaporating quickly, the Roosters were surging and with five minutes to go the Sharks looked like a boxer about to be given the standing eight count, holding a slender two-point lead.

Cronulla were on the attack but seemed to be just chewing up time rather than getting the vital try.

It's last tackle, Mick Ennis is dummy-half and looking for a ball handler. The television replays would show a young Jack Bird saying to the experienced Ennis, "Here! Give it here!"

Ennis did exactly that, Bird accelerated and then stepped inside young defensive tyro Dylan Napa to slam the ball over the line to ice the game, and get try number two for the afternoon.

Sharks fans should be excited. Bird may still only be a player of potential and will no doubt have his share of lows, as well as highs in 2015, but you can see the class.

Last week the Sharks rediscovered their style against the high flying Roosters. They hustled and bustled defensively and exuded energy with the football. They were once again a difficult and awkward opposition to play.

Tonight they face another team who have rediscovered themselves in 2015, the Newcastle Knights. For a town built on coal and steel, the high flying Tinkler/Bennett era was never a good fit. Under Rick Stone they are fighting with the underdog spirit the people of Newcastle best identify with.

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Meninga: South Sea brothers need our help

Brothers Declan and Jaquan Marou with Teeal Tanna raising money for victims of the Vanuatu cyclone. Source: unknown / Supplied

THE NRL's appeal to raise money for the victims of Vanuatu's cyclone disaster is one I hope all Queenslanders will support as a sign of gratitude for the South Sea islanders that helped to make this state so great.

This is a cause personally close to my heart, given my proud South Sea islander heritage.

But it is also an opportunity for Queenslanders to help a wonderful group of people in their time of need, and acknowledge the strong historical ties.

Over a period of four decades from the middle of the 19th Century, around 60,000 labourers were brought from the Papua New Guinea and the South Sea islands — including what is now known as Vanuatu — to work in the Queensland cane fields.

These workers were "blackbirded", which basically means tricked or taken against their will to become "indentured workers" in a foreign land.

Most became canecutters, but these labourers were also used to help build roads and railways all the way down the Queensland coast to northern NSW.

My Pop and my father were among them — they were cane cutters until the 1960s.

DONATE: go to unicef.org.au/nrl or call toll free: 1800 822 542

Mal Meninga has been a vocal supporter of South Sea islanders' cultural history in Australia. Source: News Corp Australia

These workers helped to build the Queensland we know today, working hard for long hours and short pay packets a long way from home.

Then, at the start of the 20th Century, came the "White Australia" immigration policy, and they were told to get out of the country they had been taken to by force, worked hard to help, and now had to justify their own existence to stay in.

Some were married, some had their employees act as sponsors for them, meaning about 2000 were allowed to stay.

But thousands upon thousands more were not.

The "lucky" ones were shipped back to their own islands.

The less lucky were dropped on the nearest convenient island, a place they didn't know and they were not welcome. Because of local tribalism, violence often followed.

But there are also stories of others who were simply dropped in the ocean and left to fend for themselves.

The ones that were able to stay established themselves up the eastern seaboard, living in regions like Cairns, Tonwsville, Mackay, Bundaberg — where I was born — the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane.

And the way that many of these men were able to make themselves a part of their new communities was through rugby league.

Devastation in the aftermath of Cyclone Pam in Vanuatu. Source: Supplied

Being Islanders, they obviously had the build to play the game, but for them it was a way to engage with their community, build relationships and friendships, and be seen as more than just the hired help.

That is how my dad engaged with his community. The game allowed him to become a respected part of his community.

He was a cane-cuttuer and worked in the saw mills. He worked hard for a living. But he was respected by the people in the community because of his work traits, and because he played rugby league.

So when the people of Vanuatu ask for help after having their lives destroyed by Cyclone Pam, my history and my heritage compels me to give what I can.

As Queenslanders, with the role South Sea islanders played in our state's history and heritage, I hope you feel the same way.

The NRL are holding a fundraising round next weekend across all levels — all the way down to juniors — where rugby league people can help make a difference to the lives of a nation that desperately needs our help with a gold coin donation.

So far, more than $65,200 dollars in donations have ben collected from the rugby league community, with the NRL tipping in another $50,000 themselves.

It goes a long way in a country where $37 can buy a first aid kit for the injured, and $59 can provide drinking water kits to help a family survive.

If you can help, please go to unicef.org.au/nrl or call toll free: 1800 822 542

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The brain training device giving Day the edge

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GREEN jacket hunter Jason Day is backing a brain-training headband to get into the zone to conquer Augusta and deal with the distraction of playing in Tiger Woods' slipstream.

The Queenslander had relished the idea of playing the first two rounds of the Masters with comeback man Woods but playing in the group behind him for the opening 36 holes throws up a different challenge.

The biggest crowds in golf follow the former world No. 1 and the constantly shifting tapestry of "runners" trying to get into the best position to peer at the enigmatic star can become an unwanted blur of activity and noise.

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Day, Sergio Garcia and Rickie Fowler were the final group in the 97-man field to tee off early behind Tiger's army and will follow him again early in the second round.

Jason Day clowns around with his son, Dash and wife Ellie. Source: AFP

Everything about Day's Masters preparation has been meticulous, down to playing the course last Friday with a Focus Band around his head on different holes and from his previous problem spots on the course.

Day ditched two sports physchologists from his early visits to the Masters and turned to the feedback band that beeps from a wireless EEG reading whenever he is using the desired "quiet side'' of his brain.

"It's one of the tools we use for clarity, which is so important on a course like Augusta," said Day's caddie-coach Col Swatton.

"It measures brain activity and works on better focus."

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Day has a marvellous record on the par-five 13th, where he has harvested eight birdies in his 13 rounds at Augusta, but the uphill first has tripped him five times with bogeys to be his worst hole on the course.

"We used the band there and it just showed Jason's uncertainty because he's worried that if he finds the bunker on the right with his driver he's going to make bogey,'' Swatton said.

"We'll go with a different shot, or a three-wood, and that clarity really helps.''

Day is all for nutting out the extra detail: "We went over the holes where we are over par in the past and worked out if they were driving problems or second shot problems.

"It's a mental process and that brings in the Focus Band to see if something is distracting me on the uncomfortable shots. Being able to commit to a shot is so important around Augusta.''

Day's trouble holes at Augusta are the first and the 18th, with its tough tee shot, while the tricky par-three sixth is the only hole on the course he has never birdied.

Huge galleries follow Woods's every move. Source: AFP

Countryman Adam Scott wants to get right into the Masters hunt with an early round 66 or 67.

"One great round can go a long, long way at a major," said Scott, whose opening 64 at the 2012 British Open got him into the hunt until the final putt.

"You get off to a good front nine and anything is possible on the back nine at Augusta (with two reachable par fives).''

His 66 in 2012 is his best in 48 rounds at Augusta while Day proved Scott's point with his striking 64 in the second round in 2011 which he rode to second.

Former British Open champion Ian Baker-Finch said world No. 5 Day had taken his game to a new level with big tournament wins this year and last.

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"There is a certain level or style of player who get to a point where they expect to win,'' Baker-Finch said yesterday.

"I think Jason has got to that point now when he gets to a major, like Adam has been the last couple of years.''

Baker-Finch tipped Day to get right into the mix as top Aussie while also saying he commended Scott's decision to go back to the broomstick putter.

"I think he has the ability to win again," Baker-Finch said of the 2012 Masters champion.

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Burgess boys legends in the making

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SOUTHS already have their Gladiator — now they've got a Ramses.

George Burgess sure looked a frightening sight when he marched along Tamarama Beach dressed in character to help promote Ridley Scott's latest Hollywood epic Exodus: Gods and Kings being released on to Blu-ray.

But imagine how intimidating the Englishman will look when he swaps the ancient clobber, sword and dodgy eye make-up for a South Sydney jumper this afternoon.

Burgess will try to lead from the front when Russell Crowe's Rabbitohs lock horns with Canterbury in their Good Friday grand final rematch.

TWINS: Burgess and Morris boys to make NRL history

George Burgess gets a bit of heavy make-up for the part of Rameses. Source: News Limited

The powerhouse prop didn't look amused when The Daily Telegraph suggested the Bulldogs Army might ridicule him when photos of him dressed as Joel Edgerton's character Ramses surface. Only a brave Canterbury fan would try and wind the big fella up.

He later quipped: "This could be a future career for me. I've enjoyed this today, so it could be a thing after footy.''

As for the Dogs, Burgess said: "We lacked a bit of energy the other night, and Parramatta were really good. They had the edge over us.

''Obviously we've regrouped over the weekend and put a few plans into place for this weekend.

"Every game is physical, and if we can go out there and win the forward battle, it will go a long way to winning this game.''

Luke and George Burgess look a little out of place on Tamarama beach. Source: News Limited

Luke Burgess, George's older brother who left Redfern for Manly in the off-season — and also took part in Thursday's photo shoot — said as a neutral judge: "The forwards will judge who wins this game, and it will be the backs will decide by how much.''

Being up such a long time and travelling over the pre-season meant Souths would eventually hit a flat spot. Burgess, however, said that may have been the perception of the outside world, and it was from the case in-house.

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A Cool $40 million for star colt

Vancouver showed his class when winning the Golden Slipper. Picture: Simon Bullard Source: Simon Bullard / News Corp Australia

COOLMORE has won the race to purchase a controlling interest in unbeaten Vancouver in a deal that values the colt at more than $40 million — making him the most expensive Golden Sipper winner ever sold for stud duties.

On the eve of day one of The Championships at Royal Randwick, Coolmore will on Friday announce they have secured a majority stake in Vancouver and will eventually stand the colt at their picturesque Hunter Valley property.

But the good news for Australian race fans is Coolmore's Tom Magnier has confirmed plans to race Vancouver next season, Gai Waterhouse continuing to train him for the Golden Rose-Caulfield Guineas-Cox Plate treble next spring, and then The Championships in 2016.

"There was obviously a massive amount of interest in the horse so we are delighted to have secured him," Magnier said. "He's a brilliant colt and we and our partners, who include the China Horse Club, Ramsey Pastoral and Peters Investments, couldn't be more excited about his future.

Golden Slipper winner Vancouver will return to racing in the spring. Source: News Corp Australia

"We are delighted to be racing this horse with its current owners next season and you have to give Gai credit, she has done such a great job with this colt, like she did with Pierro.''

Vancouver is unbeaten in four starts, winning the Breeders Plate, Canonbury Stakes, Todman Stakes and Golden Slipper, earning $2.33 million prizemoney and almost certainly clinching the Champion Two-Year-Old title.

His Todman success was achieved in record 1200m time for a juvenile at Randwick, while his Golden Slipper time equalled Coolmore's other Golden Slipper winner, Pierro.

The Daily Telegraph understands there are contingencies in the deal that if Vancouver wins more Group 1 races next season it will add to his value.

Gai Waterhouse will continue to train Vancouver. Picture: Simon Bullard Source: News Corp Australia

Coolmore has also bought into Blue Diamond Stakes winner Pride Of Dubai, who contests the $1 million ATC Sires' Produce Stakes at Royal Randwick on Saturday.

Vancouver and Pride Of Dubai were born at Coolmore's Jerrys Plains property in the Hunter Valley. Both colts will eventually join Coolmore's stallion roster which already includes Pierro, dual hemisphere champion So You Think, Choisir and the all-conquering Fastnet Rock.

"Racing is very healthy in this country and we are delighted to be a part of it,'' Magnier said.

Vancouver is by Medaglia d'Oro, a multiple Group 1 winner and sire of freakish American filly Rachel Alexandra.

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Nevill wins Steve Waugh medal

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AUSTRALIA'S back-up Test wicketkeeper Peter Nevill has capped off a memorable week by taking out the prestigious Steve Waugh medal as NSW player of the year.

Nevill, 29, who is now in the box seat to take over from Brad Haddin behind the stumps when the 37-year-old veteran does ultimately retire from Tests, scored 764 runs at an average of 76.40 this Sheffield Shield season, with the highlight a spectacular 235 not out against Tasmania in Hobart.

AUSTRALIA NAMES SQUAD FOR WEST INDIES, ASHES TOURS

However, it's on his keeping credentials that Nevill has been selected as Haddin's deputy for the upcoming tours of the West Indies and England in a pointer to what the future might hold.

Peter Nevill scored 764 runs for New South Wales during the Sheffield Shield season. Source: Getty Images

And with the gloves, Nevill finished the Blues' campaign with 34 Shield dismissals, comfortably beating Gurinder Sandhu, Nic Maddinson and Ryan Carters to his first Waugh medal.

NSW women's captain Alex Blackwell took out the Belinda Clark medal, a fitting tribute to a player who has been part of all 10 of the Breakers' consecutive premierships.

In other award categories, Carters was named one-day player of the year, Moises Henriques Sydney Sixers player of the tournament and South African great Jacques Kallis the Sydney Thunder's best in the BBL.

The Daily Telegraph won two awards. Gregg Porteous was recognised for the photo of the year while Carly Adno won the women's coverage award for an article on Alex Blackwell.

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China not a traffic stop for Cahill

Tim Cahill is loving his time in China. Source: Mark Nolan / Getty Images

WHEN Tim Cahill's brother Chris was pulled over for a routine check outside Ogalo in Kensington, the police (once they realised) only had one question — when is Tim coming home to play in the A-League? They were deeply disappointed when Chris told them that Tim won't be back anytime soon because of how much he is enjoying his stint in China.

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GONE FISHIN'

Lee Ki-Je may have signed a lucrative contract extension at the Jets, but the talented South Korean is still fishing for seconds.

Lee Ki-Je celebrates scoring against the Wanderers. Source: Getty Images

When Newcastle management attempted to track him down so he could put pen to paper, Lee was found happily fishing at Swansea Heads. It was a successful outing too — Lee caught a fish, scaled it and that's what he had for dinner.

GRANT FEELS APRIL'S WRATH

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Rhyan Grant was the butt of Sydney FC's April Fool's prank when the club sent out a press release saying the defender would be fined $15,000 for leaving his playing shirt in the away changing rooms against Wellington Phoenix. Jokes aside, Grant didn't escape punishment from the Sky Blues players, who we're told didn't hold back in the fines meeting.

O'REILLY FACTOR

Perth probably should be nervous about what's coming their way over alleged salary cap breaches. The man putting it all together legally is none other than Tony O'Reilly, the lawyer from the firm Kennedy's who assisted David Gallop in prosecuting Melbourne Storm and the Bulldogs for their own salary cap infringements.

KANE SPURRED ON BY SYDNEY TRIP

England's Harry Kane playing against Italy. Source: AP

That nice Harry Kane looks like a well-brought-up youngster, and so it showed this week on Twitter when the newly capped England striker cut through the controversy over his impending visit here with Tottenham.

England bosses want him to rest instead ahead of the European U21 championships in June, but Kane was having none of it.

"Just landed back from Italy! Very privileged to travel and play football. Next trip overseas is Sydney! Really looking forward to it!" he tweeted.

Compare that with grouchy Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Zack Greinke who last year said he had "zero excitement" about coming here (and diplomatically didn't in the end).

IVAN THE GREAT

ARSENAL CEO Ivan Gazidis is a busy man, but still keeps well abreast of world football it seems. Wanderers chairman Pauil Lederer walked into the Emirates stadium in north London, to be met with a handshake from Gazidis. "You've done really well for such a new club," said the Gunners boss. "Congratulations on the Asian Champions League."

RAMSEY ON TRACK TO PLAY ROOS

Iain Ramsey. Source: News Limited

IF Australia draw Philippines in the imminent World Cup qualifiers there could be a familiar face in their team. Melbourne City leftie Iain Ramsey is frantically trying to renew the Filipino passport he had as a kid, so that coach Thomas Dooley can call him up for the qualifiers in June.

"Ramsay had a Filipino passport before, when he was a 10-year-old boy. He should be on track for June. He is just renewing," said Dooley.

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Glory facing the boot from finals

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UPDATE: PERTH Glory look set to be thrown out of the A-League finals, after a Football Federation probe uncovered tens of thousands of emails that A-League bosses believe prove Glory has breached the salary cap by hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The "show cause" notice issued to Glory on Wednesday night by FFA alleges that payments and benefits to multiple players were not declared, but have since been uncovered by forensic auditors.

Though Glory owner Tony Sage last night said he had been assured by CEO Jason Brewer that the issues related to "misunderstandings" and "interpretations" that are "not black and white", it seems certain that a draconian punishment will be handed out by FFA's board on Friday next week, once Glory's official response has been received.

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FFA are racing to complete their probe before the final round of the A-League regular season, as potential sanctions threaten to change the face of the finals series. Perth could appeal to the A-League's tribunal, and then again back to the FFA board — each of which would take seven days, leaving a final resolution as the A-League enters its final round.

The allegations include but are not limited to the contract of star striker Andy Keogh, only a fraction of which was allegedly included in the club's salary cap declarations.

After thinking at the outset that Glory had breached the rules of the cap but not its limit, FFA officials believe they have uncovered far wider breaches, with the head of the A-League, Damien De Bohun, warning that "deliberate deceit" would bring heavy punishment down on the side currently sitting fourth in the competition.

The possibility of Perth being barred from the finals will have a widespread impact on the competition, with the Mariners as well as Brisbane and Melbourne City mathematically able to finish seventh and thus potentially inherit a place in the play-offs.

"FFA places the upmost importance on the integrity of the A-League, and the salary cap is a key pillar of that," said De Bohun.

"In what has been a detailed inquiry, serious concerns have been raised about Perth Glory's compliance with the cap.

"The show cause notice we have sent them alleges nondisclosure of payments, and we would take deliberate deceit much more seriously than administrative oversight or confusion over interpretation of the rules.

"The amount of the alleged breach would place Perth significantly over the cap."

It's believed that several players and coach Kenny Lowe have been interviewed by FFA officials — as well as members of the club's back office staff.

Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold said on Thursday any punishment Perth recieved would be deserved.

"If they have breached the cap then whatever penalty they get is deserved," Arnold said.

"That's what the salary cap is there for and if clubs aren't going to live by it then we may as well get rid of it and let the owners spend whatever they want."

Contract of Andy Keogh has come under severe scrutiny. Source: News Corp Australia

Sage was careful to distance himself from the running of the club, but insisted he had been told that the accounts would show Perth just under the $2.55m cap.

"Two years ago I got widely criticised by the fans and media for being too hands on, so since then I have left it to the CEO and staff," Sage told The Daily Telegraph.

"Every email I've sent, Jason has assured me we're under the cap. Clearly if there are things I'm not aware of, that can be proven by emails or documents, the CEO's position would be untenable.

Glory coach Kenny Lowe is believed to have been interviewed by the FFA. Source: News Corp Australia

"But equally I don't see how the salary cap can be ruled upon in March when there's still several months to go until the end of the year [when the clubs' accounts are tallied]."

Glory said he would "absolutely not" walk away from the club in the event of an adverse finding, but said FFA had to follow precedent if the club was found guilty.

"You can't go past history, and Sydney FC were fined for a breach [in 2006] before they lost points for subsequent offences. I'd be shocked if we were treated any differently."

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Origin places on the line in halves duel

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THEY already own NRL premiership rings after helping the Rabbitohs end a 43-year drought. Now Adam Reynolds and Luke Keary get the chance to prove they deserve to own NSW State of Origin jumpers as well when they run out in Friday's grand final rematch at ANZ Stadium.

The South Sydney young guns will go head-to-head with Canterbury's NSW incumbents Trent Hodkinson and Josh Reynolds in the Good Friday blockbuster.

And NSW coach Laurie Daley told The Daily Telegraph he would be watching the clash with great interest.

Which club partnership should be selected for the Blues?

"I am looking forward to seeing two quality teams playing against one another and two quality sets of halves running about," Daley said.

Daley has already stated he would prefer to again stick with a club combination in the NSW halves this year.

And right now that puts the Canterbury halves in the box seat, given they helped NSW end their own Origin drought last year.

Daley said it was up to the Souths boys to push them out.

"It is always hard to replace an incumbent if they have done nothing wrong," Daley said.

"We still have six or seven weeks until we pick the team but if the incumbents are playing well then they will be in the team.

"But you want to make sure if someone does slip up them you are the next cab off the rank."

A couple of years back Daley said Adam Reynolds wasn't ready for Origin football. But that opinion has changed of the now 24-year-old.

DEBATE: Daley names NSW fullback contenders

ORIGIN WATCH: Relief for Mal as NSW injuries pile up

South Sydney's Adam Reynolds and Luke Keary are both in contention for State of Origin. Source: News Corp Australia

"I think he would handle it," Daley said.

"In the past I thought that he needed to mature and we needed to be patient with him. But if we had to pick Adam now I would pick him. He has played well consistently and played well in big games."

As for Keary, Daley said the 23-year-old was fast making up ground on his more experienced rivals.

"It is good to see Keary playing some good footy. He is an exciting prospect," Daley said.

"You don't want to rush them but if they are good enough they are old enough."

In-form Roosters Mitchell Pearce and James Maloney are the other contenders in Daley's halves equation.

Daley said he had been particularly impressed with Pearce and Adam Reynolds this year.

"(Adam) Reynolds and Pearce have been amazing so far," Daley said.

"Both of those guys have played consistent now for a period of time so they are obviously applying plenty of pressure to Hodko.

"But I thought Hodko last week played the best game of his season (in the golden point win over the Wests Tigers.

"He is looking as though he is starting to find some form."

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Friday will be Josh Reynolds' first game back from a fractured arm — and the livewire Bulldog has also vowed to must play smarter so he doesn't cop any more suspensions.

Daley said he would be patient with Reynolds' form in the countdown to Origin selection.

"Josh hasn't played for a while so I know he will take as couple of weeks to get going," Daley said.

"But he always gives it his all."

Daley said while he was not opposed to having a half and five-eighth from rival clubs team up for NSW, a club combination remained his preference.

"In the past I have picked club combinations in the halves for NSW because I feel as though that makes a player more comfortable," Daley said.

"I am not necessarily locked into that again this year but that is definitely a consideration for me."

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Can Kiwis finally get one over big brother?

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THE World Cup final will be like a game of backyard cricket between two brothers - and there lies the challenge for New Zealand.

You know how it works. The little brother can fox, dance, sledge and conjure but somehow the big brother just always seems to be the one with the smile and the raised arms at the end of the day.

He knows how to win because he normally does.

Mitchell Johnson will be out to back up his great work from Sydney in Melbourne. Source: News Corp Australia

He stays calm under pressure because, in the direst moments, he is reassured the pecking order will eventually hold sway.

If any Kiwi team can challenge the flow it is this one.

They have power, poise, clever swing bowlers and a masterful spinner.

They field like demons and they bat right down the order. They are good enough to turn history on its ear.

But it won't be easy.

Australia have generally had New Zealand's number since Bill Brown led the Baggy Greens out the first Test against the Kiwis just after the World War II.

Can Brendon McCullum bring the World Cup title back to New Zealand? Source: AP

The Kiwis had a brief period of domination in the mid-1980s when they had Richard Hadlee but the overall numbers are not pretty.

Australia lead the Test series count 12-3 and the one-day series ledger 8-2.

Australia are long-time World Cup powerhouses. Just the sight of them intimidates opponents.

There were times when the Kiwis have almost admired Australia too much for their own good.

The much-loved Kiwi opener John Wright used to love having a beer with the Australians and made no secret of his affection for them.

To the point where sometimes when he would say "honestly, I just love you blokes'' they would reply, in total seriousness, "stop it Wrighty ... we are playing each other tomorrow.''

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For lengthy periods in its cricket history Australia looked down its nose at New Zealand.

After that first Test between the two nations after the war, which was not even given Test status at the time, Australia went another 26 years before granting the Kiwis another Test series.

During that time the Kiwis played 11 series against England but Australia simply felt they were not worth the effort and stubbornly refused to play them.

This Cup final means a lot to both nations but it means more to New Zealand.

They do not have the depth of talent that Australia possesses so they need all sorts of planets to align to become the world class force they are at the moment.

It is likely the two teams who take the field on Sunday will never play as one again.

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There will be retirements and changes almost instantly.

It seemingly has to be harder for New Zealand on Sunday because they have never won the Cup where Australia has done so four times.

The Australian players grew up watching their country raise World Cups.

Also the Kiwis, for the first time this tournament, will be playing outside their homeland.

The jury is out on whether that will be good or bad for them.

It might just prove a bonus for them that they can escape the hysteria of their homeland and enter a city where instant superstar Grant Elliott would be less known than some recently drafted AFL rookies.

The World Cup has the punchline it has craves and one the game deserves.

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Meninga wants to extend Maroons stay

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MAL Meninga's desire to remain involved with the Queensland team and to stay in the game beyond a new three-year contract as head coach is the remaining box to be ticked in his talks with the QRL.

Meninga is keen to take on the Origin coaching role until the end of 2018, with the QRL considering no other options for the head coach role.

Queensland's 10-year Origin coach had been equivocal in the past year about his planned longevity in the role, but is now eager to enter into another long-term commitment.

"I'm looking at opportunities past the three-year extended (contract period),'' Meninga said.

"That's where it's at presently. I would love the opportunity to stay involved in some capacity.''

ORIGIN WATCH: Gagai a frontrunner, Tamou on the slide

Meninga told The Courier-Mail on Wednesday that talks with the QRL had been positive.

QRL chairman Peter Betros said he hoped Meninga would sign a new contract before the Origin series starts in late May and said talks also extended to identifying further opportunities for the former Test captain at the QRL.

While agreement on a role for Meninga at Origin level once he stops coaching has not yet been reached, his knowledge and feel for Origin would be invaluable to incoming coaches.

Meninga also has associations with Papua New Guinea rugby league and his former club, Canberra.

NSW has had four coaches — the late Graham Murray, Craig Bellamy, Ricky Stuart and Laurie Daley — during Meninga's tenure with the Maroons.

Meninga and selectors will sort through form over the next month before the May 27 series opener against NSW in Sydney.

Fitness permitting, there will be precious few changes to the team which won the third game of last year's series 32-8.

Queensland will be based at Sanctuary Cove before two of the three matches but the team will convene in Victoria to prepare for Game II in Melbourne.

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