Tackle One – Not the time for Fijian Time
According to Eels insiders, Semi Radradra’s reluctance to return home on time this week was due to him being apprehensive over facing a media battalion at Sydney Airport.
Yesterday’s news about his former partner, Perina Ting, applying for an AVO is only likely to heighten those fears. It could also prolong his seclusion in Fiji.
But even before Ting went to police on Tuesday night, some at the Eels were willing to excuse Radradra’s extended absence on account of his cultural upbringing.
Senior players publicly declared the winger was often ‘on Fijian time’, which is another way of saying he can’t be relied upon to adhere to a schedule.
Exhibit one was his failure to return from Fiji to Darwin as arranged, prior to the clash against the Titans in Round 14.
Radradra lobbed three days late, just in time for the Captain’s Run. His excuse? Don’t worry guys, I can turn up five minutes before kick-off and still be the best player.
Yet again, every indication was that Radradra intended to do the same prior to this week’s game against Cronulla – only show-up for the final training run on Friday.
For Parramatta to tolerate this attitude on the grounds of his ability – and Fijian upbringing – is breath-taking.
Now in his fourth season as a professional NRL player, Radradra can no longer be excused for setting his watch by ‘Fijian Time’ – and consistently getting away with it.
And definitely not when he’s just changed his International allegiance to Australia; abandoning his home country in the process for a $20,000 appearance fee.
He simply can’t have it both ways. The Eels are complicit if they continue to standby and allow themselves to be hoodwinked; simply because Radradra is so vital to their success.
Yes, there are genuine health concerns with his father, who needs to travel to Fijian capital of Suva for regular treatment. And yes, Radradra is a polite and well-mannered young man.
Former female staff even recall him helping them with their bags when he first arrived at the club in late 2012.
But none of that is a valid reason not to uphold commitments that are fundamental to team sport.
At the very least, the Eels need to heavily breach Radradra when – or even if – he comes home. At most they need to simply bid him adieu to French rugby.
He’s been itching to leave for almost twelve months; but Eels fans have simply been too blinded by his brilliance to believe it.
His departure appears inevitable; be it during or after his current contract.
Parramatta should at least manage his exit on their own terms.
