LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Cameron Smith suggests that Craig Bellamy would not be pleased with Stefano Utoikamanu's recent sledge directed at Brisbane, implying that the prop will have to prove his words through performance on the field.
This statement marks one of the most significant verbal exchanges during grand-final week in over a decade, representing a noticeable departure from the typically restrained atmosphere surrounding such events.
Having played nearly all of his 432 NRL games under Bellamy, Smith understands him well. He noted, "I think in his mind he was probably thinking 'not ideal'," when discussing Bellamy's probable reaction.
Reflecting on his time with the Melbourne Storm, Smith acknowledged the current team dynamics are different from when he was there. "I haven't been involved for five years now," he elaborated, "but I think his message to big Stef would be 'well you've said what you said, now you have to back it up with your actions'.
"That's all you can do."