He was getting dropped: How The Sydney Roosters’ Workhorse Was Reignited By A Timely “Reprieve”

Before Anzac Day, Nat Butcher was put on the cutting block, but in true Sydney Roosters form, he stood up when his back was to the wall.

 

One of the team’s most dependable players in recent years, the 26-year-old had undoubtedly had a subpar season to begin with and was scheduled to be benched before the Tricolours crushed the Dragons 60–18.

Victor Radley’s injury late in the week was the reason for Butcher’s reprieve, which allowed the local product an additional week to make an impression on Trent Robinson.

Speaking with the media after the game, the coach expressed his “pride” in seeing Butcher put on a strong performance and was candid regarding his spot in the starting lineup coming up to Anzac Day.

“In his press conference, Robinson stated that ‘Rads’ was going to start and he was going to be dropped to the bench before the game.”

“He was aware of his lack of form, and Rads’s exit provided him with a reprieve.

His ability to manage that, comprehend it, and then return and perform as he did is impressive.I felt really proud of Nat.

“He’s a really good defensive player, but he’s got those attributes in attack when he lets himself open up.”