War of words has broken out before the third State of Origin game.
New South Wales forward Greg Bird has ensured there will be plenty of feeling in the third State of Origin clash by labeling Maroons coach Mal Meninga a hypocrite.
Bird’s claim comes in the wake of Will Chambers being involved with an assault at 2am this week, with the Blues forward reminding Meninga of his claim that his team’s culture was superior to that of NSW.
Meninga’s barb came before Origin I, when Sydney Roosters halfback Mitchell Pearce was not considered for selection due to a nightclub incident.
When asked in NSW camp today whether Meninga has egg on his face over that sentiment in light of the Chambers fallout, Bird didn’t hold back.
“I guess he probably does,” the NSW hardman said.
“NSW boys have been in their share of strife over the last couple of years …. off-field dramas.
“It’s nice to be tucked away in Coffs Harbour and not be a part of it.
“But it’s the nature of today’s society that the smallest thing is going to be exaggerated and everything from the past brought up.
“But I am sure it’s a storm in a teacup and glamourised for the media.”
Bird said a similar situation, where two seasons ago Blake Ferguson was arrested mid-camp due to an assault charge, was a distraction when and hinted the Blues would be keeping a close eye on how the Maroons prepare this week.
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