Greg Bird and his second chance at redemption
January 17th 2009 06:49
It was approximately seven months ago that Greg Bird was considered one of the NRL's most consistent and influential players on the paddock.
He was winning man of the match awards at will with his terrific performances for both Australia and NSW at Test and Origin level respectively, and he was widely regarded as a possible Kangaroos captain.
Now, He finds himself without an NRL contract after the Cronulla Sharks terminated his Rugby League options here in Australia for allegedly glassing his own girlfriend.
The Bradford Bulls however have reportedly agreed to terms with Bird and his management which will see the star lock forward resume his career at the English Super League this coming season.
From being one of the NRL's best players, Bird caught attention for all the wrong reasons when he was arrested for abusing his girlfriend and then citing someone else as the culprit.
It all went downhill from there as the Sharks made their intentions clear in relation to Bird's future at the club.
Although he tried valiantly to put up a case to stay at Cronulla, the Sharks were never going to change their stance on one of their most important players.
As soon as Bird was arrested by the cops, his future in the NRL was long gone.
Even though it took several months later for Bird to realise his fate, he eventually got the message and now looks to resume his tarnished career in England.
The Bulls will be well served by Bird and his tough approach to the game, while the former Shark will look to re-establish a successful career that has gone off the rails.
Indeed this is a terrific opportunity for Bird to find his feet again after a torrid few months.
He will not be getting as much publicity as he was receiving in Australia, due to the English Premier League dominating the limelight on most occasions.
Not that Bird will mind.
The former Shark is extremely lucky to be with a club for next season considering all the allegations that still linger next to his name.
Regardless, Bird will have high hopes of once again playing for Australia and perhaps returning to the NRL.
But for now, Bird should just relish the opportunity of resuming a career that he nearly threw away.
More than anything, Bird's focus must be football and redemption. Nothing else.
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