In a prelude to the highly anticipated clash at Allianz Stadium on March 22, 2025, Australian rugby coaches Stephen Larkham and Dan McKellar engaged in a lively exchange of banter, setting the stage for what is sure to be an electrifying game between the Brumbies and Waratahs. Larkham, head coach of the Brumbies, who have not lost to the Waratahs in their past 13 encounters, brought humor and jabs during a Randwick function on Sydney Harbour, delighting the audience and drawing hearty laughs.
"There’s always been a connection with Randwick and the Brumbies," Larkham quipped, playfully hinting at his team's strong ties with the historic rugby club. "Some would say there's more support in this room for the Brumbies than the Waratahs." He recalled a phone call with McKellar, where the latter tried to apologize for taking the Waratahs job, humorously labeling them as the enemy.
Highlighting the significance of the rivalry, Larkham added, "At the Brumbies, we call it ‘Tahs Week,’ and we make sure there’s a little more emotion involved than your average match." The stakes are undoubtedly high, especially following the Waratahs’ disappointing performance against the Reds the previous week, which prompted McKellar to criticize his team’s soft moments.
Regarding that recent defeat, Larkham joked, "Hearing reports out of the Waratahs, I don’t know if there’s anyone here that could tell us exactly what’s happening inside the Waratahs this week but there was a fair blow-up on the Monday, in terms of their performance on the weekend." This lighthearted jibe underscored the pressure McKellar now faces as he prepares his team to break their losing streak against the Brumbies.
While Larkham was keen to keep the tone playful, he also acknowledged the growing strength of the Waratahs’ squad, saying, "They’ve got a very good squad on paper, which I think you’ve brought together really well." He pointed out the improvement in cohesion within the Waratahs and praised the recruitment efforts by Rugby Australia that bolstered the team.
In return, McKellar maintained a respectful demeanor, recognizing the depth of history embedded in this rivalry. "You’d like to say it’s just another game, but that would be absolute rubbish," he said, stating that matches like these are rare privileges for anyone involved in rugby. He reflected on the significant relationships forged during his time at the Brumbies and expressed his intention to take victory in what he described as a "ding-dong battle" on the pitch.
Despite the atmosphere of camaraderie, both coaches understand the gravity of the impending match. Larkham acknowledged McKellar’s influence on the game, claiming, "You would have been here regardless of whether it was me or Laurie (Fisher). I think you would have found your way into a role like this whether it’s here or Brisbane or the top job here in Australia with the Wallabies. You are an outstanding coach." This sentiment illustrates the mutual respect that exists despite the competitive nature of rugby.
As the lead-up to the game continues, anticipation is palpable among fans, fueled in part by the 13-match losing streak of the Waratahs against the Brumbies. Whether McKellar can steer his side to victory and end this losing run remains a question for Saturday night, as both coaches remain focused on their game plans.
Fans of both teams will be eagerly watching this encounter, hoping for not just a great match, but for their sides to showcase the best of Australian rugby. With Larkham’s Brumbies in formidable form and the Waratahs desperate to turn their season around, it is a captivating scenario that promises to deliver on the excitement of rugby union.
In the face of adversity, the Waratahs carry the weight of their recent history onto the pitch against a dominant Brumbies team, with hopes that their new recruiting strategy will finally pay off. Larkham’s playful taunts may be short-lived if McKellar can motivate his players to harness their frustrations and seize this unique opportunity to achieve a much-needed victory.
