Incoming coach Wayne Bennett has reportedly handed the Rabbitohs a ruthless reality check, taking aim at the playing squad’s attitude, fitness and work ethic in his first return to the club.
Bennett’s spray reportedly came in a meeting last Wednesday at the club’s Maroubra base, and the super coach informed his new squad rivals have no fear when playing against them.
Some figures within the club believe Bennett’s tirade was needed to inspire the team after a season of lacklustre performances according to The Daily Telegraph.
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He also reportedly sat down with superstar fullback Latrell Mitchell for a one-on-one meeting, having travelled to Sydney only days after the Dolphins’ season came to an end in Round 27.
“Wayne didn’t f..k around… That’s how Wayne operates,” a source told News Corp.
While another reportedly said: “Wayne certainly spoke to the players. He was very direct. Has Wayne ever been less than direct?”
The playing group reportedly discussed the spray over the weekend that followed, with their commitment to the club coming under question.
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Bennett remains contracted to the Dolphins until October 31, having been knocked out of the finals race in a sudden death clash against the Knights.
The master mentor is set to make a permanent move back to Sydney in the coming weeks ahead of his South Sydney return.
He last coached the Rabbitohs in 2021, taking the South Sydney side all the way to the grand final where they ultimately went down to the Panthers.
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