Campese Criticizes Wallabies’ Lack of Culture and Understanding
Outspoken rugby legend David Campese has accused modern-day Wallabies stars of not comprehending the significance of their gold jersey, suggesting many are merely playing for the money.
Campese, the 1991 World Cup winner, has never shied away from voicing his opinions, which he believes has led to being shunned by numerous Australian journalists in recent years. The decorated winger’s concern is the current Australian squad’s lack of cultural appreciation.
“If you don’t understand why you’re playing, then it doesn’t help,” Campese told the Sydney Morning Herald ahead of the Wallabies’ Spring Tour in the United Kingdom. “It’s about money. They [current players] are well paid. It’s a job. But when you get paid and you play for a big country [like Australia], I think you should have more respect and understanding of why you’re there.”
Campese also criticized the Wallabies’ coaching staff, questioning why Kiwi Joe Schmidt, who “has no idea about Australian rugby,” is leading the team.
The rugby legend also took aim at prop Taniela Tupou, calling for him to play the full 80 minutes against England this weekend and “grow some balls.”
Meanwhile, England captain Jamie George acknowledged that Joseph Suaalii, the Wallabies’ cross-code debutant, is an unknown quantity, but the hosts plan to ensure the 21-year-old “knows what Test rugby is all about.”
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