The Kangaroos are a strong chance of introducing a war dance when Australia and New Zealand host the next rugby league World Cup in 2017.
Coach Mal Meninga is a big fan of the idea, saying it would be the ideal of way to celebrate the 50-year anniversary of Australia’s last pre-game cry in France in 1967.
“I love the idea. It’s something that we need to address,” Meninga said on the first night of Kangaroos camp for the annual mid-year Test against New Zealand.
“I think the last time they used it was 1957 (sic) so it makes great sense to me with the World Cup next year, 50 years on, that we do something along those lines. I’m happy to have a look at it.”
The idea has previously been floated by current indigenous Kangaroos stars Johnathan Thurston and Greg Inglis, but Meninga said it need to be “all-encompassing” of other nationalities.
“Indigenous people are part of Australia (but) I think it’s got to be more all encompassing around multicultural values,” he said.
“If we can do something like that and we do it well – that’s the more important part – I think it’ll be a great spectacle.”
However Meninga said it won’t be introduced this week.
“There’s enough people and players that think it’s worthwhile consideration. I’m pretty sure if we make that decision, and it’s a positive one, we’ll have something for next year,” he said.
Meninga’s comments come as representatives from North Queensland and the Sydney Roosters arrived in Coogee to begin preparations to take on the world No.1 Kiwis in Newcastle on Friday.
Blake Ferguson was one of the first to filter in, just one day after celebrating his maiden selection with a hat-trick of tries against Newcastle.
“He’s got a spring in his step downstairs. It’s good to see him get across the tryline and the Roosters playing really well. It’s good for him to justify his selection,” Meninga said.
Meninga could be forced into one change, with Cronulla skipper Paul Gallen captured elbowing Brisbane and fellow Australian forward Josh McGuire on Sunday.