Four clubs on hunt for Hoffman

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JOSH Hoffman is a man in demand with four NRL rivals, including the Titans, ready to pounce on the disgruntled Broncos fullback.

But Brisbane have issued a hands-off edict to suitors, insisting the Kiwi Test custodian will not be granted an early release under any circumstances.

Hoffman will return from the World Cup this week and walk straight into crisis talks with Broncos management.

The hunt for Hoffman is intensifying, with Canterbury, Cronulla and the Gold Coast having contacted his management since The Courier-Mail revealed his disenchantment last month.

Canberra officials have also informally expressed interest, but none of the quartet can lodge formal offers as Hoffman is contracted to Brisbane until the end of 2015.

Broncos officials are deeply concerned by social media images of Hoffman being pictured with a posse of New Zealand's Canterbury contingent, but are determined to keep him.

Broncos coach Anthony Griffin is due to meet with Hoffman in the next fortnight to address his concerns and has not ruled out handing him the No.1 jumper next year.

"I'm not concerned,'' Griffin told The Courier-Mail before Anthony Milford's officialsigning.

"Whether it is Josh Hoffman or Ben Barba, they are players in a team and they will play where it best suits their team at the time.''

22.07 | 0 komentar | Read More

Inside Hoffman's fall from grace

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IT was October last year when Josh Hoffman's relationship with the Brisbane Broncos <span channel="!Print">really</span> turned sour.

Away with the Kiwi Test side in Cairns, Hoffman made some comments in an interview with The Courier-Mail that enraged coach Anthony Griffin.

The Broncos had lost seven of their previous eight games to fade from top-four title contenders to a finals elimination in week one.

Hoffman, having returned for 2012 pre-season training several kilograms overweight at 99kg, would agree he did not have his best season subsequently.

He compounded that with some brutal honesty about the imminent arrival of Stephen Kearney as an assistant coach that ruffled feathers at Red Hill.

"We weren't really putting in (at the end of last season)," Hoffman said at the time. "We weren't looking each other in the eye and being honest about our efforts. I know myself, I wasn't digging in like I could have.

"I think he (Kearney) will really help bring the team closer."

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Talk at the time was that Griffin was so upset that Hoffman was almost sacked on the spot.

He already had one strike from Griffin in August when he was dropped to Redcliffe for arriving late to training.

Then a week before pre-season training started, Griffin signed Scott Prince from the Titans.

At the time it was seen as a broadside to existing halves Peter Wallace and Corey Norman, who both began canvassing options to leave Brisbane.

But Griffin had hinted at his motives at the time when he said it could allow Norman to move to fullback.

Hoffman was out of favour and had to wait until round 20 this year to wear the No.1 jersey again.

In that time, the Broncos almost signed Josh Dugan, until a social media rant from the sacked Canberra star ended negotiations, and Ben Barba's plans to move to Brisbane literally fell in the club's lap.

In the same week Barba's deal was finalised, Hoffman had told The Courier-Mail he was willing to fight for the No.1 jersey and remain a "one-club player".

He was man of the match days later but after the game it all exploded again when the club media manager pulled Hoffman away from Channel 7 cameras just as the topic of Barba was raised.

It was coincidental, but the images which went to air embarrassed him and the club. Hoffman stormed out of the sheds, and was overheard telling teammates he was furious the club had not shielded him from the media.

Since the season ended, Hoffman has asked for a release from his contract and is now provocatively parading himself with Canterbury players in the Kiwis camp at the World Cup.

He responded to yesterday's story in The Courier-Mail which quoted Facebook comments from his dad, by tweeting: "My father doesn't speak for me."

Privately, Broncos officials have not had a bad word to say about Hoffman but it is clear they have a major issue on their hands.

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NRL star Packer charged with assault

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NEWCASTLE Knights recruit Russell Packer has been charged following an alleged incident that left a man unconscious and with a fractured eye socket.

The former Warrior, 24, attended Newcastle Police Station this afternoon where he was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and failure to quit a licensed premises.

The incident occurred at approximately 1.30am in Martin Place, Sydney, on Saturday night.

"A 22-year-old Summer Hill man was found unconscious at the scene and treated by NSW Ambulance Paramedics," NSW police said in a statement.

"He was taken to St Vincent's Hospital for treatment of a fractured eye socket."

Packer was granted conditional bail and will appear in the Downing Centre Local Court on Monday 6 January 2014.

It is not the first time Packer has hit the headlines this year over disciplinary matters.

In June, Packer was fined $15,000 for urinating in his shorts during an NRL match at Suncorp Stadium.

Packer is the fifth NRL star charged by police this week.

South Sydney centre Dylan Walker and Canterbury recruit Tyrone Phillips were charged over their alleged involvement in a violent brawl that left three men in hospital.

Manly's Richie Fa'aoso was charged on Monday with malicious damage and drink driving, while Canterbury's Reni Maitua was charged with assault for an alleged incident involving a taxi driver.

Russell Packer urinates on the field. Source: Supplied

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RLIF awards make us ROFL

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CAMERON Smith is not the best hooker in rugby league this year.

Apparently, Issac Luke is.

The Issac Luke who plays for South Sydney . . . the one with the cannonball tackles and a dangerous dummy-half runner.

The one who had a shocker in the preliminary final.

And Johnathan Thurston isn't the best five-eighth in the world either.

No, that's Danny Brough, who plays five-eighth for Huddersfield and Scotland.

Those are two of the gems from voting in the team of the year for the Rugby League International Federation awards, presented in England this week.

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The RLIF website does not identify who votes for these awards or which parallel universe they hail from.

Wikipedia is on the case, though, and it reckons the awards are voted upon by journalists, broadcasters and ex-players drawn from both hemispheres.

It says nothing about outer space, from where it is just possible there might be lifeforms acquainted with rugby league who think that Luke had a better season than Smith, that the Kiwi No.9 has a snowball's chance in hell of ever being as good as the Storm and Australian hooker.

This is like having an award for the best fast bowler in history to have taken 350 or more Test wickets while having a moustache and not giving it to Dennis Lillee.

Or a prize for who makes kids happiest at Christmas and Santa Claus has to sit in the audience with a fixed smile as someone else gets up to say he hadn't prepared a speech, but gosh what a honour . . .

Even allowing for Melbourne's crash and burn in the finals, Smith is the best hooker in the game.

He just is.

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These awards of the RLIF, put together in 2004 from the ashes of the previous federation, are a good idea in fostering the game internationally.

But they are held up to ridicule if they can't come up with a simple task like saying the best hooker this year was the dark-haired bloke who plays for Melbourne, Queensland and Australia.

League people are used to international awards being ridiculous. The Golden Boot award, presented annually by an English league magazine, used to have thigh slappers some years.

Now it's presented by another English league magazine.

And brace yourself for this one: last year they reckoned Leeds lock Kevin Sinfield was the best player in the world.

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Milford: I don't want to be a Raider

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BRONCOS recruit Anthony Milford says he has no plans to return to Canberra, expressing his shock at a press release that represents the final straw for his career at the Raiders.

Currently holidaying in Samoa, Milford last night spoke out to refute Canberra's claim that he will honour the final year of his deal before moving to Brisbane in 2015.

The Raiders yesterday released a statement "confirming" the Broncos-bound sensation would report for pre-season training on December 16 and see out the 2014 season.

But The Courier-Mail can reveal Milford has twice told Canberra hierarchy he has no intention of returning, even spurning a three-year, $2.1 million contract extension.

The 19-year-old insists he was not consulted about Canberra's official statement in a development that has driven a toxic wedge between Milford and the Raiders.

"The way the Raiders put things out, I was disappointed and shocked that they would do it that way," Milford said.

Anthony Milford in action for Samoa. Source: Getty Images

"For them to put out a statement, I never expected that to come out.

"There was no talk of that, I didn't even know they were going to put out a statement.

"I spoke to Ricky (Stuart, Canberra coach) and Don Furner (CEO) last week and they said they wanted me back on December 16 for pre-season training.

"I haven't given any guarantees. Now all this has come out ... when I get home there will be some conversations going on.

"I'm excited for 2015 now, my whole family are happy I'll be in Brisbane."

In Canberra's statement, Furner said: "We acknowledge that Anthony has battled homesickness and is very close to his family, however we are pleased that he will be playing for our club in 2014."

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Milford has previously indicated he would sit out the 2014 season, but that is a last-resort scenario.

Money is not an over-riding concern. Milford's two-year Broncos deal is worth around $450,000 a season, meaning he has sacrificed in excess of $1 million to leave Canberra.

"My No.1 goal is to come back home and look after my parents," said Milford, who sought to trigger an illness clause relating to father Halo's health in August.

"My dad's health comes first. If anything happened to him while I'm in Canberra, I'd be pretty shitty.

"The money (from Canberra) was massive. It was a huge offer for me to stay. But at the end of the day, this decision isn't about money.

"That's why I asked for a release back in August. Canberra know how I feel ... I have gone to the Broncos for a lot less money.

"It's been very hard on my own in Canberra. I'm on the phone every day to mum and dad. I go to 'Papa's' (Josh Papalii's) house as much as I can to feel that sense of family, then I go home and I'm alone again."

Anthony Milford says he's told the Raiders he won't be returning to Canberra. Source: Getty Images

Asked if Canberra will force him to return, he said: "I have no idea, I'm pretty sure if I did stay in Brisbane, the Raiders would stop me playing any form of rugby league."

Milford said he would relish wearing the Broncos' No.6 jumper once worn by his idol, former skipper Darren Lockyer.

"As a young kid I loved watching Locky and have always gone for them," he said.

"The Broncos are a great club. I haven't played at Suncorp Stadium yet so to make it my home ground will be awesome.

"I learned a few things at fullback at Canberra but if the Broncos want me to play five-eighth, that's fine with me."

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Rabbitohs to wear $3M jumper

John Sutton, South Sydney Captain shows off the new sleeve sponsor. Source: Gregg Porteous / News Limited

The South Sydney Rabbitohs will wear the first $3 million playing strip in NRL history next year after securing another lucrative new major sponsor.

Air-conditioning giants Fujitsu will join James Packer's Crown Resorts and De'Longhi on the famous jersey as a $500,000-a-year sleeve sponsor.

Riding on the back of the NRL team's success in recent years, the Rabbitohs now have more than $7 million worth of sponsorship and corporate support.

The profile of Greg Inglis, the Burgess brothers, John Sutton and Adam Reynolds has turned the once battling club into an NRL super power that will soon reveal a million dollar plus profit for 2013.

Throw in the contacts and connection of celebrity owner Russell Crowe and remarkably they are now challenging the one team one-city Brisbane Broncos for most commercial support in the game.

John Sutton South Sydney Captain shows off the new sleeve sponsor. Source: News Limited

This is despite competing with eight other Sydney clubs in the toughest and most competitive market in the game.

Souths' commercial success comes on the back of stunning new research that reveals their incredible popularity across the country and the code.

In 2006 the Rabbitohs had under 9000 members (only 2800 with season tickets) with three major sponsors.

The team came last, was in the bottom four for TV ratings, and were struggling to pay the player and staff wages.

Fast forward seven years and the Rabbitohs were the most watched team on free to air TV in 2013 with 21.2 million cumulative viewers.

They were the second-most watched team across any code in combined FTA and PayTV, only just beaten by AFL premiers Hawthorn.

With a combined home and away game day attendance of 539,733, the Rabbitohs ranked first in the NRL, up a staggering 27% at a time when overall crowds in the game fell.

John Sutton, South Sydney Captain shows off the new sleeve sponsor. Source: News Limited

They have the biggest membership in the game at 27,392 with a target of 32,000 for 2014.

With each member contributing an average of $132, it provides members revenue alone of $4.25 million.

Little wonder the club will make a million-dollar plus profit this year, an amazing result considering they have no Leagues club or poker machine support.

Rivals like the Bulldogs get Leagues Club support of up to $6 million a year.

It's ironic that the new two-year sponsorship deal coincides with a spate of bad publicity over player behaviour this week.

"We may have a hiccup from time to time with player behaviour but overall the boys understand the importance of the image with sponsors and our members," said CEO Shane Richardson.

"We don't have leagues club money and I can assure you our owners won't be putting in any more money.

"We now have a relationship with 220 companies from local businesses to major corporations and they, along with our members, are our lifeblood."

Richardson revealed part of the decision to play interstate games each year in Perth and Cairns was to give sponsors a more national feel.

Fujitsu's national marketing manager Marc Cheah said his company saw enormous appeal in the club.

"The South Sydney Rabbitohs are an iconic club and has had an exceptional few years rebuilding its position in the NRL," he said.

"Like us here at Fujitsu, South Sydney are a performance driven club, which is evident in the results not only on the field, but off the field as well.

"With enviable membership numbers, media ratings, and followers on social media. The club is truly a powerhouse of Australian sport."

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Fatal fall deemed accident

STEWARDS have found no rider was to blame for the tragic fall that claimed the life of jockey Desiree Gill at the Sunshine Coast this month.

The inquiry into Gill falling from her mount Celtic Ambition was concluded yesterday, with stewards taking evidence from riders Tegan Harrison, Priscilla Schmidt, Tiffani Brooker and Andrew Spinks, who all travelled in front of Gill up to the point of the accident.

Chief Steward on the night Martin Knibbs, told the jockeys no one rode in a careless, reckless or incompetent manner.

"I'd like you all to go away satisfied of that. The fall is nothing more than a tragic accident for horse and rider," Knibbs said.

"Incidents such as these are a reminder that each and every time jockeys go out on the track they face these potential consequences."

A post-mortem examination of Celtic Ambition found there were no significant abnormalities detected and furthermore an analysis from the Queensland Government Racing Science Centre found no prohibited substances in the horse's system, other than the barbiturate solution used to euthanase the horse on the night.

The Racing Industry has rallied around Gill's husband Barry since the accident, with a fund set up to support the family.

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Competition keeps Jack nimble

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IF Brisbane right back Jack Hingert ever starts taking his first-team spot for granted, he only needs to check the Roar teamsheet for Ivan Franjic's name.

Hingert has been the biggest beneficiary of Brisbane coach Mike Mulvey's decision to move Franjic out of the Roar's defensive line into more attacking midfield and wing roles.

Socceroos boss Ange Postecoglou sees things differently, having declared Franjic will only be considered at right fullback for the national team.

With Irish midfielder Liam Miller close to returning from a calf injury, Mulvey will soon have a selection headache.

While it is unlikely he will return Franjic to right back to make room for Miller's return, Mulvey has that option, which is keeping Hingert well and truly on his toes.

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"No matter what team you play for, there's always players who can play in your position,'' said 23-year-old Hingert, who is enjoying his best start to an A-League season, with seven successive starts in Brisbane's table-topping team.

"Especially here at Brisbane with the depth that we've got, it is hard and there's always pressure, but that's probably another reason we're doing so well.

"I'd love to play every game this season. This is definitely the best and most consistent start I've had since I've been here.

"I did have to be a bit patient when I first came. The last two years I've been in and out.

"Now Mike's given me the opportunity to really cement my spot and that's what I'm going to try to do."

Hingert joined the Roar in 2011 after two seasons with the now defunct North Queensland Fury, where his teammates included current Brisbane skipper Matt Smith.

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"Like me, Jack has developed as a player since joining the Roar from the Fury and he's still developing," Smith said.

"He has to wait his turn at the Roar but he has earnt his spot in our team. The right back spot is now his position to lose."

Hingert's credentials will be given a stern test tomorrow when he goes head-to-head with flying Perth winger Sidnei Sciola.

The Brazilian has been the Glory's best outlet in attack this season and will again try to cause havoc out wide for Perth, who will be without suspended skipper Jacob Burns and injured pair William Gallas and Scott Jamieson.

"He's had a good start to the season, so it's going to be a good test for me, but I like that, I like having a good test," Hingert said.

"I can deal with his speed. I look forward to having a good battle with him.

"We enjoy the competitiveness. Hopefully they come out firing. We're going to do the same."

Roar goalkeeper Michael Theo did not train yesterday, but is no doubt for tomorrow's clash, with rest being given as the reason for his absence.

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Mundine triumphs in farcical finish

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ANTHONY Mundine's expensive gamble to bankroll his fight against veteran Shane Mosley ended in unexpected triumph when the 42-year-old three-division world champion was forced to withdraw from the 12 round fight after just six rounds suffering back spasms.

While Mundine deserved his victory, and was leading the fight according to all three judges, Mosley's abrupt abandonment provided another farcical element to a fight delayed five weeks, and which started late last night because the gloves for the entire card failed to arrive on time.

Shane Mosley goes down. Picture: Mark Evans Source: News Limited

The crowd booed loudly when Mundine's TKO victory was announced largely because they were disappointed at Mosley's surrender.

NRL STAR FERGUSON LOSES BOXING DEBUT

But if it was not the emphatic triumph Mundine had hoped for, it was a result that kept alive the Australian's far-fetched dream of a lucrative crack at superstar Floyd Mayweather, or another international superstar.

CHOC'S GREATEST OPPONENTS

''No matter what you say he's not just going to back out because of something stupid,'' said Mundine. "It was obviously back spasms that got him.''

Anthony Mundine celebrates his sixth-round TKO victory. Source: Getty Images

Notionally, the fight was for the WBA international super welterweight title. But, for both the 42-year-old Mosley and Mundine, this was a referendum on their now limited futures.

In the early rounds Mundine was aggressive, but Mosley more crisp and controlled. But the momentum turned in the fourth round when Mundine stung Mosley with a big right hand that saw the American fall to the canvas as he tried to hold on.

It was not a knock down, but like blood in the water for Mundine who moved in with a series of combinations on the shaken Mosley. After that Mundine kept ploughing forward, scoring regularly as the American appeared to tire.

Anthony Mundine lands a left. Source: Getty Images

Despite losing three kilograms for this fight, Mundine said he felt stronger than five weeks ago when the fight was originally scheduled.

Mundine had been strangely quiet in the lead-up. A sign, we were told, "The Man" would for the first time let his fists do all the talking. Despite Mosley's injury, he can claim to have done that.

That Mosley had lost four of his last five fights was considered, by some, an indication he was past his prime. But that the American had continued to fight the cream of the world boxing talent gives Mundine's victory some credence - at least in name.

Shane Mosley rocks Choc. Picture: Mark Evans Source: News Limited

The fight had been delayed five weeks after Mosley was not paid a $1 million guarantee, prompting the American to leave the country. Inevitably, Mundine was forced to promote the fight himself at substantial personal cost.

Earlier, former Canberra Raider Blake Ferguson made his debut on the undercard suffering a four-round points loss to Luke Turner, a 22-year-old excavator driver from Goulburn.

If it wasn't an epic for the annals of boxing history it was, at the least, the first time a rugby league player had thrown a punch in recent times without attracting the attention of the NRL Integrity Unit.

But the glory belonged to Mundine, who will hope to use Mosley's scalp as a springboard to the big time. Something many believe he has delayed too long by fighting local and imported bums for pay-per-view riches.

Shane Mosley's wife watches on. Picture: Mark Evans Source: News Limited

When Manny Pacquiao beat Brandon Rios in a $30 million promotion in Macau at the weekend, David Beckham, Stephen Baldwin and Paris Hilton were in the crowd. On Wednesday night, there was a only a light sprinkling of local sporting celebrities.

Pacquiao walked away with a minimum $18 million. Depending on how many paid the $49.95 to watch Wednesday night's fight on pay-per-view, Mundine could lose $500,000 of his own money on this fight.

But so strangely contorted are boxing's machinations, Mundine might yet have a better chance of fighting the undefeated Mayweather than Pacquiao, the dream match-up which, the New York Times observed, ''has zero or close to zero'' chance of happening.

Mundine's chances? Probably not much greater. But, having claimed the biggest names of his career, the dream lives on.

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Where were you at The Oval, Andy?

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ENGLAND coach Andy Flower must be taking the piss.

How can someone in charge of a bunch of free-spirited urinators like the England cricket team possibly lecture anyone on standards and leadership?

Flower was totally dismissive of questions about players relieving themselves on England's most historic Test pitch at the Oval after securing a 3-0 series victory three months ago.

"Can we talk about the Test series win rather than a ridiculous topic like that?" Flower said at the time.

It was as if 133 years of Test history at the ground and the legacy of the great Jack Hobbs, who was later knighted, paled in comparison to the latest triumph by his lads, so they could celebrate however they liked.

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And they did, with some Australian journalists and dozens of cleaning staff forced to endure the irony of another dry and doctored wicket finally being moistened by some inebriated cricketers.

At no stage was there any attempt by anyone that I could see showing any sort of leadership as players took it in turns to denigrate the rich history and tradition established by all those who had gone before.

A couple of days later the England Cricket Board released a tame apology denying any intention to disrespect, talking up respect for the game and finishing with "it was a simple error of judgement more than anything else."

In a game sometimes decided by millimetres it was quite a significant error of judgement given the toilets were roughly 100 metres away.

Fast forward to the day after England's four-day flogging by 381 runs in Brisbane, when Mitchell Johnson bombed the Poms out of existence, and compulsive sledger Jimmy Anderson held up the inevitable to complain about sledging.

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"I think there are standards of behaviour that individuals and teams must set themselves," said Flower.

"The competition should be intense. It's played between two proud cricketing nations. But I think we need good leaders, who know where to draw the line, and they need to be good role models."

Right, so where was the line at The Oval during that night of gloating and revelry?

Where were the good leaders and good role models?

If Flower had not been Zimbabwe's greatest player, by a fair margin, it would be easy to assume he was just another of those sanctimonious whinging Poms who are clogging up the Twittersphere.

It would appear that with the demolition job Australia did on England in Brisbane they have enough to worry about in their own back yard before advising anyone else on how to deal with theirs.

The umpires and the International Cricket Council match referee are the final arbiters on what is right and what is wrong.

The only problem they had was the stump mike inadvertently picking up Michael Clarke returning fire to Anderson.

If the stump mike had been off between deliveries, as it should have been under ICC protocols, no one would have been busted for anything.

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This is professional sport with a lot at stake played by big boys.

Leave judgement to the officials and get on with the game.

BOMBS AWAY

When Mitchell Johnson was having a tough time on and off the field during the 2009 Ashes tour he became a sideshow as the Poms absolutely gave it to him, with the Barmy Army constantly mocking the left arm quick.

Now Johnson has opened a stall of his own at the carnival and called it Bomb The Poms.

Oh the delicious irony of England officials querying the intimatory bowling rule as Johnson carved up their batsmen on a fast and bouncy Gabba wicket.

Oh the hypocrisy of these same England officials complaining about sledging when Johnson absolutely copped it on and off the field.

The way he melted down during that 2009 series was part of the reason why Johnson was not chosen amongst the five quicks who toured earlier this year.

Now the Mitch is back and the singing has turned to whinging.

COURAGE UNDER FIRE

Of all the cricket books lining the shelves for Christmas next month the one with by far the greatest cast is "Champions" written by Mike Coward.

He interviewed 58 players from around the world, many of them all-time greats.

They give compelling insights into areas of the game such as leadership, courage, philosophy and the spirit of cricket.

Yet one of the most compelling interviews is not from a player but umpire Simon Taufel, who was caught up in the 2009 Lahore terrorist attack which also targeted the Sri Lankan bus.

"I'm not afraid to say that on the plane in Dubai I sat in my seat and I did cry and I thought about the time when I would actually see (his wife) Helen for the first time," Taufel said.

"I didn't want to show her that I was emotional. I didn't want to show her that I was upset or that there was a problem so I actually went through that experience on the plane."

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Inglis to Ferguson: Don't waste talent

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On the other side of the world Greg Inglis yesterday issued troubled NRL star Blake Ferguson some sound advice: "You can make this life whatever you choose".

As Inglis prepared to go head-to-head with Sonny Bill Williams and Scotland's Danny Brough for the title of International Rugby League Player of the Year that will be awarded today in Manchester, the Kangaroos' superstar opened up and in a wideranging interview talked about the turning point in his own career _ and why it is now up to Ferguson to save himself.

Asked if he would want Ferguson at South Sydney next year given the Rabbitohs needs for a strike centre, Inglis said: "We do need a centre, Blake is available and I am always about giving people chances.

"I know Blake personally but I don't know what is going on in his personal life.

"Obviously he has some issues there that he has to deal with and obviously he has done that with Choc (Mundine).

Blake Ferguson weighs in for his undercard fight. Source: News Limited

"But for Fergo, I just think he has to really stay on track and really aim to find a club but that is only if he wants it.

"In regards to Souths, that's not my place to say.

"He has all the talent in the world, there is no doubt about it.

"But you can have all the talent but you have got to also have that attitude and self discipline and respect.

"You can make this life whatever you choose."

Asked if he would be prepared to help Ferguson resurrect his career, Inglis added: "You can put your hand up to help him but you can only help a person so much.

"We have had a couple of young guys come through in the same situation but in the end they just didn't want to work to the culture we have."

Earlier this year rugby league Immortal Bob Fulton hailed Ferguson as a superstar in the making after he described his phenomenal matchwinning effort against Melbourne as "a Greg Inglis like performance".

But as Inglis explained, all the talent in the world won't get you to the top if not prepared to do the hard work.

"Even Craig Bellamy will tell you, my first year at Melbourne wasn't the greatest. I didn't create the greatest impression with Craig but fortunately for me he gave me a second chance and invited me down the next season.

"Training wise I wasn't the best but I learnt along the way talent only takes you so far.

"He gave me plenty of serves but I can see now that he just wanted the best from me and in the end it was up to me."

And that hard work ethic is also the reason why Inglis has such a high regard for the man he went head-to-head with last night for the title as the world's best rugby league player.

"The way Sonny has come back after five years out of the game just shows how much of a talented, skilful person he is," Inglis said.

"The first game he came back against Souths he wasn't at his best but what can you expect when he has been out of the game for five years.

"After the game I said it would take him three or four games and he would find his feet and that is the way it worked out because he works hard to be the best.

"Love him or hate him he is a remarkable talent and human being.

"He has done pretty much what no one has done before and gone to different sports and become a champion at them all."

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Though asked if Williams' wideranging success ever made him think about switching to another code, Inglis said: "I have been asked that but mate I am happy where I am at.

"I am happy within myself.

"I had the opportunity to do it but I decided to stay in the game because I love it.

"But there is no doubt about it, I respect him. I think he is a remarkably talented man."

And after fighting it out for the International Rugby League Player of the Year their battle will continue this weekend when Inglis runs out against Williams' Kiwis to play off in the World Cup final in Manchester.

If Billy Slater as expected gets passed fit to play, Inglis will shift back to left centre and standing opposite him at Old Trafford will be the superstar backrower.

"You always want to play against the best players in the world," Inglis said.

"Any player you ask will say the same thing and in the end it becomes a challenge because you want to see where you are at.

"Me and Sonny are really good mates but like any professional athlete when you go out there you have got to do your job."

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Cup final stars deserve a rest

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THE NRL and RLPA are officially monitoring every club to ensure weary World Cup players aren't forced back to training prematurely.

Each player - through rugby league's Collective Bargaining Agreement - must be given a clean break of six weeks during the off-season.

That break though is difficult to police this year due to the World Cup in England.

Some players are burnt-out. Cronulla prop Andrew Fifita is lining-up for his 36th game in this weekend's World Cup final.

Some clubs desperate for success are thinking of rushing back their stars into pre-season but they have been issued with a strong warning from the NRL and RLPA.

The two bodies drafted a joint letter - signed by NRL head of football Todd Greenberg and RLPA CEO David Garnsey - reminding every club that players must receive their allotted rest.

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Failure to do so could prompt a club to be issued a breach notice.

''They need to observe their obligations,'' Garnsey said. ''We need to look the player's physical and psychological well-being.

''The clubs need to know there are consequences but the primary reason (for the letter) was a reminder, not to be threatening.

''At the moment there are no issues but, if there are, they will be addressed.''

Players contesting this weekend's World Cup shouldn't be back at training before mid-January.

"Clint (Newton, RLPA general president) and I sat down a while back and said this could be tricky because there are multiple dates when teams start training again with the World Cup grafted on,'' Garnsey said.

"There could possibly be understanding or confusion because there are so many dates when players could return.''

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Rags to riches Dave

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HE once earned $12 an hour packing shelves at Woolworths. Today, David Warner is the exemplar of rags-to-riches success, emerging from a housing commission estate to become Australian cricket's $5&#8201;million man.

Away from the public glare of life in the baggy green, Warner has been privately cultivating enough wealth to reward parents Howard and Lorraine with early retirement.

Welcome to Warner Inc, the investment and real-estate portfolio the Test opener is amassing in his journey from blue-collar battler to self-made millionaire.

Warner may have earned infamy for punching English rival Joe Root in a Birmingham bar in June, but he is nobody's fool.

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Behind the scenes he is financially savvy, funnelling the millions he makes from cricket into property deals that ensure he will never experience the scrap for every dollar that defined his childhood.

For the past 26 years Warner's parents Howard and Lorraine lived a simple existence in Matraville.

Their lessons for sons Steve and David have spawned true reward. To work hard. To stay grounded. To appreciate the hard road, the grind, and where it can take you.

For all his millions, Warner has not severed his working-class roots. A day after playing a key role in Australia's first-Test hammering of England, where he thumped 49 and 124, he was back at Matraville RSL enjoying a quiet beer with his old man.

"People don't see the real side to Dave," Warner Sr says.

David Warner's father, Howard, happy after his son reaches 100 at the Gabba in Brisbane. Source: News Corp Australia

"David has come a long way. I remember he was packing shelves at Woolies. He used to finish shifts at midnight and I would pick him up. He was only 15. He used to keep asking for pocket money and we just didn't have any money, so he got his own job.

"He grew up with very little. When you grow up hard you appreciate it more than if you have money all your life.

"If you are filthy rich you don't bloody appreciate anything. David has toiled on his own. We never thought he could earn such big dollars but he is working his guts out and it is paying dividends now."

Warner's gift to Howard, 60, and Lorraine, 57, is that they will never have to work again.

"We have always been battlers, it's been a struggle at times," says Howard, a hardware salesman.

"He's looked after us, he's a bloody good boy. I'm so proud of him. To be honest, Dave has got us out of debt. We weren't in huge debt but we had credit cards and he's paid them all off for us."

David Warner (third from the right, front row) when playing for his school team many years ago. Source: News Corp Australia

The combative opener has several income streams. One of the nation's top-five ranked players, he pockets around $2 million annually from his Cricket Australia deal. There are sponsorships with Gray-Nicolls, Asics, All Day Socks and ANZ Stadium. Throw in an Indian Premier League contracts worth almost $2 million and Warner is one of Australia's richest athletes.

His manager, Tony Connolly, is currently in the marketplace looking to build on the Warner empire. But the 27-year-old's focus remains cricket and he has enlisted professional help to monitor his business interests.

"He's got a full-time financial adviser that takes care of his portfolio," Connolly said.

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"You can easily underestimate Dave but he is very street-smart and very savvy off the field. He is doing the right thing with his money and setting up his financial security.

"What he does in the next 10 years will set him up for the rest of his life. He can make a lot of money and never have to work again.

"The great thing is Dave is unaffected by it all. He hasn't forgotten his roots, he is still the same kid who grew up in Matraville."

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Lehmann wants more aggression

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NATIONAL coach Darren Lehmann has backed Michael Clarke to go for the jugular, despite former England captain Nasser Hussain accusing Australia of bully-boy tactics.

Australia's first Test thumping had a dramatic postscript on Monday when Clarke was charged by the International Cricket Council for sledging England paceman James Anderson.

Clarke will be fined 20 per cent of his match fee, around $3000, after stump microphones picked up the skipper telling Anderson Australia's quicks would "break his f***ing arm".

Relations between cricket's oldest enemies became strained on Saturday when David Warner fired the first salvo, claiming a "weak" Jonathan Trott personified a "scary-eyed" England side.

Hussain slammed the behaviour of an Australian side that is developing a harder edge under Lehmann, who ascended to the national coaching post in June.

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Speaking before Clarke was formally charged, Lehmann wanted Australia to maintain the rage - and his skipper's ICC reprimand won't alter plans to intimidate Alastair Cook's troops.

"I like them playing hard cricket," said Lehmann, who labelled the old enemy's cricket "dour" during the recently-completed Ashes in England.

"I like our boys being aggressive without crossing the line. It will be always hard-fought between Australia and England. It certainly was in England and has been over the years.

"The ICC deals with everything else . . . and if any player crosses the line they will deal with it."

Hussain, who captained England in 45 Tests from 1999-2003, is no stranger to Australia's aggressive style. He led the Poms during Australia's golden age but accused Clarke of picking an easy target by sledging Anderson.

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"They didn't need to dance on their grave," Hussain said in his English newspaper column.

"I wasn't too impressed with the niggle at the end of the game. I think that was a bit of Aussie frustration spilling over after the difficult time they've had - not just losing 3-0 in England, where they probably deserved better, but the mockery they received on that tour of India (in March).

"I thought Australia emerged from their defeat in the summer with a lot of dignity. But they have to keep that dignity intact when they win.

"I totally agree that if you dish it out, you should expect to take it back.

"But when the No. 11 is in and you're about to win by almost 400 runs, just knock him over, shake his hand and say: 'We did you there'."

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"I didn't like some of the disrespect that was shown to England - like David Warner suggesting Jonathan Trott was scared.

"Pull the other one."

In-form Australian quick Mitchell Johnson warned England to expect more fireworks as the series progressed.

"There's a fair bit of tension there," he said.

"I think that's definitely going to continue through the series, you're going to see a bit more of it.

"We're going to play on our skill, and hopefully we can beat them.

"I love getting in a bit of a scrap, and so do a few of their boys. If you can keep your emotions in check and just keep playing my game and it comes off, then it's good."

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Harris should skip Adelaide: Hughes

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FORMER Test skipper Kim Hughes says Ryan Harris must be rested for the second Test in Adelaide - or risk a breakdown that could derail Australia's hopes of reclaiming the Ashes.

Australia coach Darren Lehmann says Harris is unlikely to be sidelined for the return bout, starting December 5, if the veteran paceman pulls-up well from their thumping Gabba triumph.

But Hughes is concerned Harris' battle-weary frame could be vulnerable to another injury if he is forced to complete back-to-back showdowns with England in Adelaide and Perth.

Should the second Test last the full five days, Harris would have just four days to prepare for the third Test starting Friday, December 13 at the WACA.

There are major concerns over whether Harris, at age 34, can withstand the rigours of a five-Test series and Hughes believes the veteran quick must be wrapped in cotton wool.

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"I think resting Ryan for Adelaide should be a real possibility," Hughes said. "The issue for the Australian selectors is who do they bowl in Adelaide?

"Based on the history of the wicket, it will be five days of slog for the quicks and you need the bowlers to be fresh for Perth."

The Test in Adelaide is scheduled to finish on a Monday and they start Friday in Perth ... that short break leaves our fast bowlers facing the possibility of breaking down.

"I hope Michael Clarke doesn't bowl the guys into the ground because there is every chance there will be a result in Perth and not Adelaide.

"I think we have to be careful with Harris. The last thing we want is bowling him into the ground in Adelaide and then he can't bounce back for Perth.

"Hughes points to the recent Sheffield Shield clash in Adelaide, with South Australia and Western Australia hammering 1237 runs collectively for the loss of just 23 wickets

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.Harris bowled 34 overs across two innings in Australia's first-Test win at the Gabba, but faces a more onerous workload if England's top-order fire on a batter-friendly Adelaide deck.

"If the wicket is anything like the Shield game, maybe we should give James Faulkner a go," Hughes said.

"I spoke with Justin Langer (WA coach) and he said Adelaide did not deteroriate at all, he said you could have played there for 10 days.

"If there is no bounce, that's where someone like Faulkner should come in.

"Adelaide is traditionally a highway, so there's no point flogging someone like Harris into the ground when he is the ideal bowler in Perth."

Former Test quick Len Pascoe believes sidelining Harris would be a grave mistake.

"It's important we keep the momentum going with Harris," he said. "If he stops his workload, he will seize up, at 34 years of age you have to keep his rhythm.

"We saw that with Peter Siddle last year, they rested him when Siddle wanted to play. Then when he did come back he didn't have the form he had before they rested him.

"My gut feeling is you keep them going, the guys are playing for their country, Ryan Harris shouldn't have to face being rested."

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Mitch's mentor says best is to come

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THE plumbing van driver who once saved Mitchell Johnson's career is certain the best is yet to come.

Johnson's friend, mentor and former Brisbane Norths club coach Brett Mortimer says the 32-year-old quick was out injured so much earlier in his career that is only now starting to reach his peak.

Mortimer famously re-ignited Johnson's career in 2003 when he gave him a job driving plumbing vans and helped him rebuild confidence and iron out technical flaws at a time when he had lost his Queensland contract.

Johnson was back to his scary best with a bang when he skittled the hapless Poms during the Gabba Test - and Mortimer expects him to keep getting better.

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"I was always hoping he would get one more crack (at Test cricket) because he was a late starter to cricket and then he missed several years out injured when he was younger," Mortimer said.

"Then he spent more time out of the game in the last few years. Because of that, I don't think he has really reached his peak yet.

"I reckon the best is in front of him."

Mortimer, who was in the stands for the first day of the Gabba Test, believes Australian fast bowling coach Craig McDermott has worked wonders with Johnson.

And he says Johnson must take enormous credit for overcoming his mental demons from previous tortured battles against the Poms. The fast bowler's career was almost ruined in England in 2009 when on and off-field problems plagued him and the Barmy Army taunted him relentlessly.

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"To get over those scars and to come out throwing punches is great," Mortimer says.

"He just looks a different cricketer now. This is a coming of age for him.

"I always knew he had the ability. It's just good to see him fulfil his promise."

As Johnson exacted revenge on the Poms, Mortimer noticed some subtle technical changes in his action which have helped him back to full firepower.

"He is a lot more balanced at the crease than what he was before," Mortimer says.

"His head is nice and still.

"He really doesn't get tall at the crease but he does get high with his arms.

"Have a look at his arms, he has got really long arms.

"When he puts his arms down his side, they come half way down his thighs."

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MJ has Poms paralysed with fear

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AUSTRALIA believe Mitchell Johnson has England's batsmen paralysed by fear after he surpassed pace great Merv Hughes with a nine-wicket hatchet job at the Gabba.

Johnson claimed man-of-the-match honours with a haul of 9-103, including a second-innings five-wicket blitz that saw him overtake Hughes on Australia's all-time wicket-taking list.

Big Merv was ranked 11th with 212 wickets at 28.38 but Johnson finished the first Test demolition with 214 and is set to leapfrog Clarrie Grimmett (216) into Australia's top 10.

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That feat perhaps best crystallises the resurgence of Johnson, who could surge past 300 Test scalps if he maintains the rampaging form that terrorised England's top order.

It was Johnson's first-innings dismissal of Jonathan Trott that set the tone for this Test and the Australians are adamant his 145km/h thunderbolts have the Poms spooked.

"The way Mitch bowled ... you can see it in their eyes that they weren't quite comfortable facing him so it was good fun," wicketkeeper Brad Haddin said.

Mitchell Johnson celebrates taking Graeme Swann's wicket. Picture: Cameron Spencer. Source: Getty Images

Johnson will never be Australia's Mr Consistent but he possesses a quality few contemporaries share in world cricket _ the ability to bowl terrifying express pace.

And it was fitting he should celebrate his renaissance at the Gabba. It was in Brisbane some 15 years ago that Johnson was a raw quick from Townsville who arrived in town to be mentored by Australian pace icon Dennis Lillee.

Fittingly, at his nadir last year, it was Lillee who helped rebuild Johnson and refine the action that saw him describe the left-armer as a once-in-a-generation quick.

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"I have to give a big thanks to Dennis. I have been able to keep in touch with him since he saw me when I was 17 when I first came to Brisbane for a fast bowling clinic here," he said.

"To have a legend of the game in my corner and to be able to talk to about cricket things is an amazing thing."

Asked last night if he saw fear in the English batsmen's eyes, Johnson smiled and baulked at adding fuel to the inferno created by David Warner.

But he promised one thing _ he would continue his bumper war in the second Test in Adelaide.

"I'll keep doing it. It's working," he said.

Of Trott, Johnson added: "He's been thinking about the short ball from what I have seen in the nets ... practising the short ones.

"There were a couple of nice ones zinging past his nose and as a fast bowler you give him a stare and look at his eyes and there might have been a bit of fear there."

England skipper Alastair Cook admitted the tourists struggled to handle Johnson's lively spells.

"We are going to go and look at how we will play him," he said.

"We have to be very honest with ourselves and how we are going to play him. You can't brush the issue. He has hurt us in this game and we are going to have to show our ability in the next game."

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Young, Sydney Kings struggle

Sydney King import Sam Young drives to the basket but is blocked by Matt Knight of the Wildcats. Source: Paul Kane / Getty Images

SYDNEY'S new import and recent NBA swingman Sam Young got a hellish introduction to the NBL on Sunday as the Kings were crushed 98-55 by ladder leaders Perth.

Young, a 249-game NBA veteran, was the second-highest scorer for Sydney with 14 points, including 12 in the first half in Perth.

He made four of his 12 field-goal attempts and hitting two of five from three-point range.

Perth enjoyed a massive 44-24 rebounding advantage against a misfiring Kings outfit that shot a woeful 28 per cent from the field.

Perth (9-1) shot at a sizzling 55 per cent, with import James Ennis, one of five Wildcats with a double-digit score, leading the way with 18.

The Wildcats rebounded superbly after losing their unbeaten record in a 91-86 away loss to second-placed Adelaide (7-2) on Friday.

They slashed a 22-point deficit to three in the final minute of that game.

Shawn Redhage inspired the comeback, hitting 25 of his 30 points in the second half.

Centre Daniel Johnson scored 24 and guard Gary Ervin 22 for an Adelaide side that proved they are a legitimate title contender.

``We've played much better in other games,'' Adelaide coach Joey Wright told AAP.

``We gave up 19 offensive rebounds, we went 0 from nine from three-point range.''

The top two have pulled away from Sydney and Melbourne (both 4-4) after the Tigers crashed to a 90-75 home loss to Townsville (3-5) in Sunday's other game.

In-form Tigers guard Chris Goulding scored 25, but the Crocs were inspired by a remarkable Steve Markovic shot from halfway right on the three-quarter time buzzer.

Markovic finished with 15 and import Josh Pace 18 for the Crocs.

``That was as disappointing a loss or game as I can remember,'' said Melbourne coach Chris Anstey.

New Tigers import Mustapha Farrakhan scored six points, making just three of his 11 field-goal attempts.

Tom Abercrombie nailed five three-pointers in his game-high 24 for New Zealand (3-6) in their 81-74 home win over Townsville.

Wollongong import Rotnei Clarke completed a match-winning three-point play in his game-high 27 points to seal a 75-73 away win over Cairns.

It was the first time Cairns have suffered six straight losses under coach Aaron Fearne, with the Hawks joining the Taipans on 2-6.

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Flames on hot streak

Karen Dalton's Sydney Flames are on a hot streak of form, having won three straight matches. Source: Brett Costello / News Corp Australia

LESS than a month ago Karen Dalton's charges were significantly better chances of winning the WNBL wooden spoon than making it into the top four.

But after three successive wins - including the scalps of two top four sides - Dalton is again a believer.

The Sydney University Flames produced another big upset when they dislodged Melbourne from the top of the WNBL ladder with a come-from-behind win at home on Saturday night.

The result saw Melbourne slip to second overall and the Flames move into sixth place.

"We were in last spot with a 1-6 record - what a difference some good defence can make,'' Dalton said in reference to a shocking six-game losing streak where the Flames conceded 79.7 points a game at a generous 47 per cent.

On Saturday the Flames beat the much-touted Melbourne Boomers 83-71 after trailing the WNBL title contenders by 13 points in the first half.

A brilliant defensive display in the second half saw the Flames restrict the Boomers to just 28 points with Katie Ebzery (22 points, five rebounds, two assists), Alicia Poto (16 points, five assists) and Rohanee Cox (15 points, six rebounds, three assists, three steals) stars for the late-charging Flames.

"This was a big scalp for them to get but they still didn't play well in the first half,'' Dalton said.

"What we need to start doing now is playing well from start to finish.''

Now boasting a 4-6 win/loss record, the Flames' next outing is an away game against Canberra who sit just below then on the league ladder with a 4-7 record.

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Buzz: An open letter to the IRL

Sam Burgess is tackled by New Zealand's Elijah Taylor, Ben Matulino, Bryson Goodwin and Simon Mannering. Source: GLYN KIRK / AFP

THIS is an open letter to the board of the International Rugby League.

Gentlemen, congratulations on staging one of the greatest internationals in the history of the game on Saturday night at Wembley Stadium

I enjoyed the England-Kiwis match as much as any State of Origin game or any grand final.

It was an absolutely magnificent showpiece of skill, sweeping ball movement, intensity, courage and excitement.

The try Panthers centre Dean Whare set up for Roger Tuivasa-Sheck was as spectacular and as stunning as anything you will ever see.

Shaun Johnson celebrates his winning try with team mates. Source: Getty Images

We will be watching it on YouTube and talking about it for years.

Sam Burgess turned in one of the greatest front-row performances from an English forward in international football.

Sonny Bill Williams was just Sonny Bill Williams - simply sensational.

James Graham and Gareth Widdup showed why they are both regarded as world class players.

JOIN BUZZ AS HE BLOGS FROM 10AM

Shaun Johnson showed why he is the game's next boom halfback with the awareness, the step, the acceleration and the speed to score the last try and then calmly convert.

Compare this to the penalty goal shootouts we so often see rugby union Tests. Or nil-all draws in soccer internationals.

You guys should put this game be on a DVD and show it to the world as there could be no better advertisement for the game of rugby league.

New Zealand rugby league star Sonny Bill Williams gets the ice ready after a bruising win over England. Source: Supplied

People who have never watched the game will immediately become fans.

As for the second game guys, the Kangaroos against Fiji, I can't comment because I refuse to sit up in the wee small hours to watch any sport when you already know the result.

Australia has now won its last four games by a combined score of 210-2. It's just embarrassing.

The purpose of this letter is to point out ways to improve the game at an international level without subjecting hapless, outclassed opponents to meaningless floggings.

Andrew Fifita of Australia bursts through to score a try against Fiji. Source: Getty Images

A World Cup should be all about the high quality and standard of the Poms v Kiwis blockbuster.

Instead of exposing the minnows every four years, they need your full time funding, attention and support.

Has an NRL side ever toured Fiji, Tonga or Samoa?

Surely you could stage NRL pre-season trial games in the Pacific Islands, just like we do in Tamworth, Wagga and Coff Harbour.

If we are to stage a Manly v Canberra NRL game in China next year, why not in a developing rugby league country?

Clubs too should be encouraged to bring more Fijian players into the NRL competition.

Give salary cap discounts or exemptions to clubs that sign players from Fiji.

Fiji's Kevin Naiqama reacts at the final whistle after his team was beaten 64-0. Source: AFP

The only reason England and the Kiwis are so competitive now is because their players are hardened by the weekly demands and professionalism of NRL football.

In the meantime stage your World Cup every four years but restrict it to the best of the best.

Eventually, if you guys can get the development right over the next decade, we'll have more competitive countries and more magnificent games like England v New Zealand.

Maybe even a Four Nations tournament with a competitive Fiji, not a side that gets belted by 60. That should be your aim.

Regards, Buzz.

HIGHLIGHT I

The Ashes annihilation of England at the Gabba with our oldest and most experienced players leading the way - Brad Haddin, 36, Mitchell Johnson, 32, and Michael Clarke, 32.

HIGHLIGHT II

The last five minutes of the Sydney FC v Wellington game at Allianz Stadium on Saturday night was absolutely brilliant edge-of-your-seat sport.

HIGHLIGHT III

The Kiwis-Poms semi-final was the best rugby league international I've seen in more than 10 years.

LOWLIGHT

The English commentators at the rugby league World Cup. They were disgracefully biased.

LOWLIGHT II

The Kangaroos have now won their last four games at the World Cup with a combined score line of 210 points to two. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

ZIP IT DAVE

Dave Warner's insulting comments about the English batsmen at his Saturday evening press conference were unnecessary during the first game in a five-match series.

Save it until after the series when it can't be used as motivation.

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