‘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 films such as "Gladiator" and "The Nice Guys," expressed his longing for his former connection to the South Sydney Rabbitohs rugby league team by saying, "I miss you blokes." This statement was made during an interview on the "Big Sports Breakfast" radio show in Australia in 2020, where he also expressed his belief that only one person could help turn the team around from their current struggles – Wayne Bennett.

Wayne Bennett, a legendary coach in the rugby league world, had previously led the Rabbitohs to their first premiership title in 43 years in 2014, after a drought that lasted from 1971. However, he left the team in 2018 to join the Brisbane Broncos, citing a desire for a new challenge. Since then, the Rabbitohs have experienced a decline in performance, finishing 11th in the 2019 NRL season and 13th in 2020.

Bennett's departure from the Rabbitohs left a significant void in the team's leadership and coaching structure, which was evident in their poor performance in recent seasons. The team's fans have been calling for his return, believing that his expertise and experience could help them regain their form and compete at the highest level once again.

Russell Crowe, a long-time supporter and former co-owner of the Rabbitohs, shares this sentiment. He has been vocal about his desire for Bennett's return, stating that there is no other coach who can help the team like he can. Crowe's involvement with the Rabbitohs dates back to 2006 when he became a part-owner, and he played a significant role in helping the team return to the NRL competition after a 13-year absence.

Bennett, on the other hand, has not publicly commented on a potential return to the Rabbitohs, but his unfinished business with the team remains a topic of speculation in rugby league circles. He has stated that he still keeps in touch with some members of the Rabbitohs organization, but it remains to be seen whether he will make a comeback to coach the team that gave him his first NRL premiership title.

In summary, Russell Crowe's statement "I miss you blokes" refers to his longing for the Rabbitohs team, and his belief that only Wayne Bennett can help them get out of their current struggles. Bennett, a legendary coach, led the Rabbitohs to their first premiership title in 43 years in 2014 but left the team in 2018. Since then, the team has experienced a decline in performance, leading to calls from fans, including Crowe, for Bennett's return. However, Bennett has not publicly commented on a potential return to the Rabbitohs, leaving their future uncertain.