Australian forward Mitch Barnett has been tipped to rip into his Warriors club teammates in the Pacific Championships clash with New Zealand in Christchurch, and a recent text exchange suggests that prediction is on the money.
Barnett's Warriors teammate and Kiwis opponent Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad revealed recently that he had sent him a message on his Australian selection that simply said, "congrats bro'", only to receive one back that said, "I'm not your bro'".
Barnett was asked about the exchange on Thursday and, perhaps not wanting to give the Kiwis pack any ammunition ahead of Sunday's showdown, played it down.
"That was just a bit of a joke between two mates," he said.
The 30-year-old has been embraced by the fans this week in Christchurch, so much so that he is being called Mitch "Wahnett''.
However, fellow Australian forward Angus Crichton said Barnett would not be giving any quarter on the field to any of his "bros" in club-land.
"I don't think he needs any geeing up at all. Barney goes after every single player that is across him and that's just the way he plays," Crichton said.
"Mitch 'Wahnett' they are calling him. Wahnett has been on fire. He was on fire in Origin and thrives in these team environments. He brings everyone together."
It took a move to the Warriors last year for Barnett to find his best football. His dynamic display for NSW on State of Origin debut in this year's decider showed he was made for representative footy, and a deserved Kangaroos jersey has followed.
"I've always believed I was good enough to make it but knew I had a lot of things to tidy up on and off the field," Barnett said.
"I had to move out of Newcastle and come over to the Warriors. The whole club and coaching staff have backed me and believed in me and given me confidence. Not only that but I have worked really hard to tidy those things up to get to where I am.
"I'm extremely proud. It is a massive achievement. I'm looking forward to getting out there and getting amongst it."
Asked how he would be received on Sunday by Kiwi fans, he said "wouldn't imagine too good", but so far so good out and about in Christchurch.
"It has been pretty funny coming here and being very well known by the rugby league community here," Barnett grinned.
"I have had a lot of people asking for photos and wishing me all the best."
And what does he think about the "Wahnett" moniker?
"I love it. The Warriors fans have been really good to me and I am embracing it," he said.
