Smith clips Bellamy 'rubbish' amid Souths rumour

In early February 2023, Australian rugby league football great Cameron Smith took a playful jab at his long-time Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy during an interview with Triple M radio, in response to speculation linking Bellamy with the vacant coaching position at South Sydney Rabbitohs.

Smith, who retired from playing in 2020 after an illustrious career spanning 17 seasons and 430 games, was asked about the possibility of Bellamy joining his former club, South Sydney. The Rabbitohs had recently parted ways with their head coach, Wayne Bennett, and were reportedly considering several candidates for the role, including Bellamy.

During the interview, Smith expressed his support for Bellamy and joked about the situation, saying "I think Craig would be a great appointment for any club in the competition. I'm just not sure if he wants to go and work for another team and have someone else telling him what to do."

Smith went on to add, "I think he's quite happy where he is at Melbourne at the moment. I don't think he wants to be the rubbish collector down at South Sydney."

The "rubbish collector" comment was a reference to the derogatory term used by some fans and media to describe the role of the Rabbitohs' water boy or ball boy, which is often considered an unglamorous and menial task.

It is important to note that at the time of Smith's comments, there was no official confirmation that Bellamy was being considered for the South Sydney coaching job. However, the speculation had been widespread in the media, and Smith's remarks were made in good humor and in response to the ongoing rumors.

Bellamy has been the Melbourne Storm coach since 2003, leading the team to eight premiership titles during his tenure. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in rugby league history and has been linked with several other coaching vacancies in the past, but has consistently chosen to remain with Melbourne.

As of now, Bellamy has not made any public statements regarding his future plans beyond the current season with Melbourne. The Rabbitohs have also not announced their new coach, with several high-profile candidates still in contention for the role.