Lewis: Fittler no idiot
Queensland legend Wally Lewis has used his rare insight into Brad Fittler to warn the Maroons not to take the jocular NSW coach lightly.
The rugby league greats worked together in broadcasting and Lewis has shed light on why the former Blues captain was the right choice to replace Laurie Daley.
Lewis believes the lighthearted antics displayed by Fittler on television won’t be brought into the NSW camp during next year’s State of Origin series.
‘‘At Channel Nine, I’ve admired the way he goes from a rogue idiot at times and a real joker to a rugby league diplomat, a ‘Serious Sam’,’’ Lewis said.
‘‘When we start talking about footy, he switches. It’s total concentration.
‘‘That’s what will be necessary for his involvement with the Blues. A lot of people probably don’t see him being a ‘Serious Sam’ type.
‘‘But he’s never been a loser, Freddy. He’s always hated it. He’ll be working 24/7 behind closed doors where no one will see - and people misjudge him a little bit - because he has that need to win.’’
Former Kangaroos captain Lewis was adamant Fittler’s time as a long-serving representative player and coach with City Origin, Lebanon and the Sydney Roosters during a difficult period was enough experience for the Blues gig.
But speaking at the Jack Newton Celebrity Classic on Tuesday, ‘‘King Wally’’ was doubtful NSW would be able to arrest Queensland’s dominance given the emergence of halves Michael Morgan and Cameron Munster to replace retiring superstars Cooper Cronk and Johnathan Thurston.
‘‘They (Morgan and Munster) couldn’t have come on at a better time,’’ Lewis said.
‘‘They’ve already experienced some pressure football at the highest level.
‘‘There doesn’t seem to be any area they fell short in so I certainly think they’ve got the ability.’’
Lewis added that the pressure Anthony Milford and Ben Hunt put on their spots ensure they continue performing.