JWH no longer wants to play class clown
EJARED Waerea-Hargreaves no longer wants to be known as the funny guy in the Kiwis.
The 28-year-old prop has benefited from two late reprieves recently, firstly getting called into the New Zealand squad for the World Cup, following the Tongan defections, after previously being told he wasn’t wanted.
Then, he was set to miss out on Saturday night’s test against Samoa, but was promoted into the 17 when Kenny Bromwich was ruled out with a groin injury.
So despite being part of the Kiwis’ leadership group for the World Cup, he’s still got a point to prove with David Kidwell.
At the last World Cup in England Waerea-Hargreaves was the squad’s comedian; if there was something funny to be said he’d say it.
When the squad attended a primary school in Yorkshire during the tournament, he got up to do a funny dance and entertain the kids. It’s all part of WaereaHargreaves’ good nature, but he says he’s looking to display more of his serious side at this World Cup.
‘‘I think I’ve changed. I’d hope I’ve changed,’’ WaereaHargreaves said. ’’Since that time I’ve had a baby and I’ve had a bit more experience. I don’t have the time to be the funny bugger any more.
‘‘There are a few new guys who have taken over that role or responsibility. I’m passing that baton on.’’
So who has he passed it to? ’’There are a couple to be honest. Jordan Rapana is a bit of a class clown, Brad Takairangi is another one who has a good laugh,’’ he said. ’’So there are a couple of guys who keep the morale high in the camp and that’s important.’’
As part of his maturing status, Waerea-Hargreaves says he’s willing to help out any of the younger players in the Kiwis squad. He’s an experienced campaigner, with 175 NRL games to his name and with so many young players in the New Zealand team, his knowledge is invaluable.
‘‘I’m here to do what’s best for the team,’’ he said. ’’If there is a young guy that needs some mentoring, they know that I’m there for them to lean on, or get advice from. I’m definitely willing to do whatever it takes for this team.’’
While he’s known as one of the most dynamic and toughest front rowers in the NRL, one constant criticism of him from some quarters is that he’s never played as well for the Kiwis as he has for the Roosters.
So this World Cup is a chance for him to change those perceptions.
‘‘It’s a good challenge,’’ he said. ’’This opportunity in front of me is great and I’m looking forward to it. I know the comments are out there, but I’m looking forward to these games.’’
Pressed further and asked if those criticisms of him are unfair. Waerea-Hargreaves answers in a way that suggests he is bothered by it.
‘‘Everyone is entitled to an opinion,’’ he said. ’’I have my own, but some people like to share theirs more than others. All I say is bring it on and I’m looking forward to it.’’
For the Rotorua-born WaereaHargreaves, who has lived most of his life in Australia, representing the Kiwis is a way for him to keep the connection with New Zealand and you’d be hard pressed to find someone in the squad more passionate about representing their country than him.
‘‘I’m a proud Kiwi,’’ he said. ‘‘I’m here to represent myself and family.’’