UPDATE: The word is spreading like wildfire. In what could the second bombshell of the week, James O’Connor may be heading to the Melbourne Rebels to join fellow Wallaby Kurtley Beale.
Although none of this is confirmed, media reports are suggesting he could be signed by Monday.
If this is the case, the big question on everybody’s lips is where does that leave Danny Cipriani? Is this an indicator that he may not return to complete his second season with the Rebels?
If he’s staying at the club it’ll all be costing a motzah, but what a backline this would make! It would just ooze talent. Maybe Big ‘Arold has bottomless pockets?
In our G&GR Podcast this week we interviewed the Rebels’ vice-captain Gareth Delve and put this very proposition to him —asking about JO’C recruitment rumours and whether he thought Danny Cipriani might not be returning next year. Gareth said that Danny was enjoying life at the Rebels, was happy with his new start in Melbourne and should return in 2012.
For the Force, the loss of O’Connor would be a devastating blow to their club. They just could not sustain a departure of this magnitude. They would be struggling to find a player to replace him (although his going would free up some spare ‘readies’). Worse, his loss may also encourage other players not to re-sign. The Force are already struggling to build depth and are subject to a continuing geographical disadvantage, compared to the eastern state clubs.
You just can’t conjure up a Rabbit O’Connor clone from around these parts. You’d think that under these circumstances (if true) the Force would have to go offshore — but they already have a marquee signing in Willie Ripia.
Rabbit arrived in Perth three years ago as a baby-faced assassin with loads of potential and has turned into a seasoned international, admittedly still with that baby face. He’s played 32 Super games in just about every backline position; he’s the ultimate utility. Every time he has the ball there’s something on. He’s been their play-maker when he’s positioned at either five-eighth or fullback. He’s represented the Wallabies in 27 Tests, and will be at the forefront of our RWC challenge.
All up, this may not be so much of a positive for Australian rugby overall but you couldn’t blame the player concerned. The opportunity to play under Rod Macqueen and with KB may be an irresistible lure.
Some updated information. Rabbit tweeted about an hour ago: “Hey guys – appreciate all the support and interest. Focussed on game this weekend – all else will be sorted in due course. Cheers tweeps.” That’s not an actual denial, to spell out the obvious.
Force coach Richard Graham also put his oar in: “Not true that James O’Connor is signed elsewhere. Rumour sells but not reality! Focus is on the Western Force game v. the Brumbies.” (A denial, or in denial?)
Rabbit then tweeted: “Interesting – only headlines expecting on Monday is big win for the Force;) reports not right!” Does that mean negotiations are still underway?
Whatever the truth of the matter it makes for fascinating reading. We await the outcome with interest….
