Mini makes big impression
ANTHONY Minichiello has been out of the game for three years, but clearly he has not let himself go.
Stripping off after a marathon training session at West Barlow Park in the heat with Italy yesterday, Minichiello, 37, was impossible to miss with his Adonis-like physique.
One of the most meticulous trainers and a player who always heavily invested in nutrition, Minichiello tips the scales at 85kg, about 5kg lighter than what he was when playing for the Sydney Roosters.
Italy coach Cameron Ciraldo quipped he had eaten exactly what Mini had during camp, but for some reason did not have the same physique.
James Tedesco, who is no slouch when it comes to the muscle department, said Minichiello and his younger brother, Mark, were tough to fault in terms of their preparation: “They’re both in their thirties but looking as fit as ever.”
Minichiello and Bondibound Tedesco have spent plenty of time working together ahead of Italy’s World Cup opener against Ireland.
“We put lot of emphasis on fullbacks controlling the defensive line at the Roosters; it takes a lot of training, a lot of skill and years to get that right,” Minichiello said.
“At the Roosters we want to be known as a good defensive team.
“A big part of that will fall on Teddy.” SCOTLAND lock James Bell says he’s eager to rise to the occasion of the World Cup and show he belongs in the NRL.
The New Zealand-born forward is one of two Bravehearts players with NRL experience, playing twice for the Warriors in 2017, and qualifies through his Scottish grandad.
Bell hoped to show the value of having more exposure than most to the top grade.
“I know the standard that you need to be at to play at that level, so hopefully I can rise to the occasion,” he said.
“I’m pretty small but hopefully I can use the ball and use my footwork.”
Bell said there was a good feeling among the group, particularly now they were used to the heat.
“I’m looking forward to it, hey,” he said. “We’re creating some good combinations.
“Everyone’s keen, everyone’s buzzing.”