EXCLUSIVE: Andrew Johns shares three insider tips from Craig Bellamy that could benefit NSW

Craig Bellamy is well-acquainted with the dynamics that unfold in a team’s coaching box, but his responsibilities in the State of Origin environment differ somewhat from those he typically handles at the club level.

The seasoned mentor has taken up the position of advisor for the Blues, working under head coach Laurie Daley during his second term as the state team’s leader.

Bellamy’s involvement with the squad hasn’t been as overt as in many of his previous roles, as the 65-year-old has clarified that his responsibilities extend beyond just game day activities.

Although the ultimate decision for the squad on match day lies with Daley, Andrew Johns opines that there are three crucial areas where the coach will seek Bellamy’s expertise.

“I believe (he is assisting with) interchange,” said Andrew Johns during an episode of Wide World of Sports’ Immortal Behaviour.

“Knowing when to rotate players in and out is truly an art (for a coach). This is especially vital when managing their middle forwards and determining how long to keep the bigger players on the field.”

“I believe ruck defence is a strong aspect of (Bellamy’s) coaching approach, alongside what to refrain from saying.”

“If you’re a coach and feeling a bit pressured, you must ensure that doesn’t transmit to the players because they can sense it.”

“At times, what you don’t articulate is even more crucial than what you do.”

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Johns suggested that Bellamy’s involvement might mirror that of Panthers head coach Ivan Cleary during the third match of the 2023 State of Origin series.

Facing pressure to avoid a clean sweep in that series, then Blues coach Brad Fittler sought Cleary’s counsel.

A simple invitation to join the coaching box was all it took to bring Cleary on board, and Johns noted that he contributed to interchange decisions throughout the match.

“I recall Freddy had Ivan in the box one year, and Ivan is quite the calm presence, but he assisted with the interchanges and their timing,” he remarked.

“It will be fascinating to see just how involved (Bellamy) becomes.”

“I believe he’ll oscillate in and out of camp. His primary focus appears to be on game day.”