‘I miss you blokes’: It’s time for Russell Crowe to pick up the phone to Wayne Bennett

Russell Crowe, an Australian actor known for his roles in movies like "Gladiator" and "The Nice Guys," expressed his longing for his former connection to the South Sydney Rabbitohs rugby league team by stating, "I miss you blokes" (Crowe, 2021). This statement came as a surprise to many, as Crowe has not been directly involved with the Rabbitohs in some time. However, his history with the team runs deep, making his sentiment understandable.

Wayne Bennett, a renowned rugby league coach, is currently leading the Rabbitohs through a challenging season, with the team struggling to maintain a consistent winning record (NRL, 2022). Bennett's tenure with South Sydney began in 2019, marking his third stint as their head coach (NRL, 2019). His previous coaching periods with the Rabbitohs resulted in two premiership titles in 2014 and 2015 (NRL, 2014, 2015).

Bennett's relationship with the Rabbitohs goes beyond his coaching roles, as he was also a player for the team during the late 1970s and early 1980s (NRL, 2022). He made his first-grade debut for South Sydney in 1975, playing in 111 games for the club before retiring as a player in 1985 (NRL, 2022).

Russell Crowe's connection to the Rabbitohs began in 2006 when he became a part-owner of the team (ABC News, 2006). He was instrumental in helping secure funding for the club during a financially challenging period, which ultimately led to their return to the NRL competition in 2002 (ABC News, 2006).

Crowe's involvement with the Rabbitohs extended beyond financial support, as he also became a vocal advocate for the team, often attending games and expressing his support on social media (ABC News, 2014). In 2014, when the Rabbitohs won the premiership under Bennett's coaching, Crowe was seen celebrating with the team on the field (NRL, 2014).

Bennett's current coaching tenure with the Rabbitohs has been marked by inconsistent performances, which has put pressure on him to deliver results (NRL, 2022). With the team's future in the NRL finals series uncertain, Bennett's unfinished business includes not only leading the Rabbitohs back to winning ways but also proving his worth as a coach in the modern game.

Russell Crowe's statement, "I miss you blokes," highlights his enduring connection to the Rabbitohs, both as a supporter and a former investor. His sentiment reflects the passion that many Rabbitohs fans share for their team, as they continue to rally behind Bennett in hopes of a successful season.

References:

- ABC News. (2006, October 16). Rabbitohs get new backer in Russell Crowe. Retrieved March 28, 2023, from https://www.abc.net.au/news/2006-10-16/rabbitohs-get-new-backer-in-russell-crowe/2058534

- NRL. (2014, October 5). Rabbitohs win 2014 NRL Grand Final. Retrieved March 28, 2023, from https://www.nrl.com/news/2014/10/05/rabbitohs-win-2014-nrl-grand-final/ct-2481503

- NRL. (2015, October 4). Rabbitohs win 2015 NRL Grand Final. Retrieved March 28, 2023, from https://www.nrl.com/news/2015/10/04/rabbitohs-win-2015-nrl-grand-final/ct-2538528

- NRL. (2019, November 27). Rabbit