The new ‘open, transparent’ Wallabies

Editor

Australia and Waratahs prop Sekope Kepu has uncovered the key terms behind Michael Cheika’s new Wallaby regime.

Australia and Waratahs prop Sekope Kepu has uncovered the key terms behind Michael Cheika’s new Wallaby regime.

Looking for a string of good performances in November to put the off-field scandal that ended with Ewen McKenzie’s resignation to bed, the Wallabies’ first hit-out under Cheika ended with a 40-36 win over the Barbarians at Twickenham.

Kepu outlined that not hiding any issues in the squad had been one of Cheika’s directives to Australia in order to avoid any similar situations.

Another part of that is putting the Kurtley Beale incident behind them, whilst learning from it; something that Kepu says has already been done.

“It’s just about being honest and open with each other… whether that’s over a meal or a coffee, building that culture,” Kepu told The Canberra Times.

“That’s one of Cheika’s main focuses, to get that openness and transparency.

“You can speak about it, but if you don’t show it, it doesn’t mean anything. If you do that, you get the respect and trust of the public and opposition.

“[Beale’s incident] feels like two months ago, it’s been dealt with by the ARU and we’re here to play rugby.

“We’re not even thinking about the past.”