Smith clips Bellamy 'rubbish' amid Souths rumour

In early March 2023, Australian rugby league football great Cameron Smith made headlines with a playful comment directed towards his long-time coach at Melbourne Storm, Craig Bellamy, amidst rumors linking Bellamy with the vacant head coaching position at South Sydney Rabbitohs.

The speculation about Bellamy potentially joining South Sydney had been circulating in the media for several weeks due to the Rabbitohs' search for a new head coach following the departure of Wayne Bennett. The Melbourne Storm had just won their 10th consecutive victory in the National Rugby League (NRL) premiership, and Smith, who retired from playing in 2020 after an illustrious career, couldn't resist poking fun at his former mentor during an interview with Triple M radio.

Smith stated, "I think Craig is just trying to get out of Melbourne before the season starts and get down to South Sydney. I think he's had enough of us winning and wants a new challenge."

Bellamy and Smith have had an incredibly successful partnership during their time together at Melbourne, with Smith being one of the key players in the team and Bellamy leading them to numerous premiership titles. However, with retirement looming for Smith and the team performing exceptionally well under Bellamy's guidance, there were rumors that the coach might be considering a new challenge elsewhere.

South Sydney, with its rich history and passionate fanbase, seemed like an attractive option for Bellamy, who had previously coached the Rabbitohs from 2003 to 2006 and led them to their first premiership title in 40 years in 2002.

Despite Smith's lighthearted comment, there was no confirmation from either Melbourne or South Sydney regarding any negotiations between the two clubs or Bellamy's intentions. The speculation continued until late March when it was officially announced that South Sydney had appointed Sam Burgess as their new head coach, putting an end to the rumors surrounding Bellamy.

In summary, Melbourne legend Cameron Smith made a humorous comment about his former coach Craig Bellamy leaving Melbourne Storm for South Sydney Rabbitohs amidst rumors linking Bellamy with the vacant head coaching position at South Sydney. However, these rumors were put to rest when Sam Burgess was officially announced as the new head coach of South Sydney.