As raging favourites to lift the Rugby League World Cup trophy for a 10th time, it’s almost unthinkable Australia could fly under the radar.
But skipper Cameron Smith is hoping the sideshow surrounding New Zealand superstar Sonny Bill Williams could allow the Kangaroos to enjoy some valuable time away from the spotlight.
Dual international Williams is the undoubted headline act of the event, beginning on Saturday.
The former All Blacks rugby union star originally ruled himself out of selection for the reigning champion Kiwis, before backtracking and his presence has sent interest in the tournament skyrocketing.
Smith says that could work in favour of Australia, the perennial tournament favourites who are used to shouldering much of the publicity, pressure and scrutiny.
“That’s the type of bloke (Williams) is – a lot of people follow him and they’re pretty keen on the way he’s playing and what he’s doing,” Smith told AAP.
“A lot of the interest will be on him, there’s no doubt about that, and that’s great for us.
“We just get to do our own thing and hopefully fly under the radar a little bit and do what we have to do to be successful.”
Understandably, Smith has mixed feelings about Williams’ inclusion.
“As a lover of rugby league, yes (it’s great), as an Australian representative, no,” Smith said.
“He’s a fantastic player and he only makes their squad stronger.
“It creates some positive headlines for the sport, but hopefully it if there comes a time when we’re playing against him, he’s not playing that well.”
Williams was instrumental in helping the Sydney Roosters to the NRL premiership and looms as a pivotal part of the Kiwis’ World Cup title defence.
New Zealand coach Stephen Kearney said Williams’ on-field qualities were plain to see but his off-field influence was already being felt among the squad.
“Just the way he goes about his business is a real eye-opener (for the other players),” Kearney said.
“When you’ve excelled at three sports like he has … it’s not only your talent that’s getting you through, it’s other qualities which have to be a part of his makeup.
“He’s as driven as any other athlete I’ve seen to want to be the best. That helps the group around him.”
The Kiwis open their campaign against Samoa in Warrington on Sunday.