Blues 'connection' to pay off in disrupted season
Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler is confident the camaraderie and spirit the players have built in winning the past two State of Origin series will stand them in good stead to overcome any hurdles that are thrown at them for this year’s series.
The NRL suspended their season over the COVID-19 pandemic that has swept the globe but officials are hopeful they will be able to resume playing at some stage in 2020 with Origin a part of the plans even if the competition is reduced.
There are several dates that have been put forward for the NRL to resume ranging from 1 June to 1 September which could result in a three-game Origin series being played outside of its traditional window for the year, including as late as October or November.
Fittler, who took over the reins as coach in 2018, is confident the work the coaching staff has put in to bring the squad closer together, including a Junior Rugby League clinic in Armidale, a visit to bushfire-affected Taree and the past two series wins, will help overcome any disruptions.
“I feel like the players have done enough over the past couple of years to convince me they’ll be doing everything to get back to their clubs and do whatever they can and the rest looks after itself,” Fittler told nswrl.com.au.
“You’ve already seen that pay off just the way they act in public. I feel like there’s a connection now.
“We’ve just got to be ready.”
Fittler has maintained contact with the squad through a WhatsApp group but has also respected their privacy as they come to grips with the NRL season being suspended and the players’ decision to accept pay cuts to ensure the game’s survival.
He has been impressed with the work they have been doing behind the scenes to help fans deal with the coronavirus crisis, including filming videos in response to Junior Rugby League fans who have asked for coaching tips from their favourite players.
“This is about everyone trying to deal with it and we’re all in a holding pattern,” Fittler said.
“They’ve done a few things which have been wonderful.”