Argentinian rugby player Pablo Matera has revealed the reason why he snubbed the handshake of New Zealand hooker Dane Coles.
After Argentina lost 53-3 to the All Blacks in Hamilton on September the 3rd, both teams lined up to do the customary handshake. However, Matera shook every New Zealand players' hand except Coles. Instead, the captain ignored his outreached hand and shoved him.
No love lost between Matera and Coles.#NZLvARG pic.twitter.com/CBsF0faFdZ
— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) September 3, 2022
Speaking on the What A Lad podcast, the 29-year-old revealed the reason why he struck the New Zealand player instead of shaking his hand.
I think he came in with 10 minutes left, and just continued picking on me in every ruck and scrum, saying somethings that really hurt, some strong things.
Sensitive topic
The Argentine later specified that Cole's comments were about his time spent in New Zealand, something the Los Pumas player is sensitive about.
I just didn't understand why he continued picking on me and he said things that I'm sensitive about, like me being in New Zealand, ‘you don't belong here’.
Read More: Emerald Warriors Continue To Prove How Inclusive Rugby Can Be
Matera recently moved to New Zealand and played for Christchurch's Crusaders team. He had become a fan favourite at the side winning the Super Pacific Title and fans reportedly showing up to his house just to say hello. He believes that if Cole knew what he and his family had to go through to make the move, he wouldn't have made those comments.
If you knew how much me and my family went through to be able to come here, you wouldn't be saying such things.
Setting a bad example
However, the rugby star reveals that he regrets shoving Cole, believing that it was not a good example to show kids watching. He also revealed that he went against one of his firm beliefs that day.
That is not something I'm proud about to be honest, because I know there's a lot of young kids, young players that watch the game and it's not a good example.
I'm one of the guys that say things that happen on the field, stay on the field, that's how it has to be always, but that day was a bit different.
Later on in the podcast, the loose forward revealed that if Coles invited him for a beer, he would accept 100%. It's up to the All Black's hooker to reconcile their differences.
SEE ALSO: Jack Crowley Gives Brilliant Explanation Of His Development As An Outhalf
