Josh Addo-Carr has opened up on his “disappointing” decision to pull out of the upcoming Indigenous vs Maori All Stars clash, revealing he’s “not ready physically and mentally.”
The 27-year-old captained the Indigenous side last year but told foxsports.com.au on Friday that he made the call after talking to Bulldogs coaching staff and agreeing it’s what’s best for the team.
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“I just feel like I need to get my mind and body right. I’ve only been back the last three weeks, I sat down with the coaches and they went through some stuff that I needed to get right and that’s all it was,” he said.
“It was a disappointing decision but at the same time I thought about the team before myself.
“I don’t want to go there and not be as fit as I could be and there’s a lot of risk in that with injury. Everyone here is easing me into training so I just thought it was the right thing.
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“We’ve had player meetings with the coaches and I brought it up. I just feel like I’m not ready physically and mentally.
“It wasn’t a long season — I don’t want to use that as an excuse — I just want to put the team first. I’m not as fit as I should be and I’m just trying to get everything right.
“I’m shattered but it’s just one of those things.”
Addo-Carr has had a shortened pre-season due to World Cup commitments with the Kangaroos.
He confirmed the decision has nothing to do with any injury concerns.
The ‘Foxx’ did reveal though that a “big part” of the decision has to do with giving himself more time to get comfortable with the systems new coach Cameron Ciraldo has implemented over pre-season.
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“It’s a complete opposite to what I’m used to, but I’m buying in 100 per cent. I’m still getting used to everything and improving every day,” Addo-Carr said.
Addo-Carr has represented the Indigenous All Stars three times. He said “it’s a special thing to be a part of,” but conceded “sometimes you’ve got to make those tough choices.”
It’s understood Rabbitohs back Isaiah Tass has been called into the squad to replace Addo-Carr — something that made the star winger smile.
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“It opens the door for another young fella coming through and that’s what it’s all about,” he said.
For the first time since it’s inception, the All Stars clash will be played in New Zealand on Saturday February 11.
Addo-Carr will watch on from home.
“I might even do the war cry in my lounge room,” he laughed.
