Thu 19 May 2016 | 10:25
Find out what really makes Nick Cummins tick in this insightful feature with his ailing father

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Nick Cummins is certainly no stranger to the world of rugby. The Honey Badger has created a loyal following through a combination of his fierce style of play and perhaps more significantly, his special application of the English language.  

Ever quick with the one-liners, his cult hero status has been well and truly cemented, and we love him for it. His sincerity and straightforward nature have gone a long way towards enhancing his magnetism and global appeal.

A couple of years ago at the top of his game, Cummins decided to leave Australian Rugby, shocking many. In this piece for Channel 7's Sunday Night, Cummins talks about his decision and shows an emotional side perhaps very few have seen.

Mark Cummins - Nick's father - has been given a terminal diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Nick, along with his father and two brothers, Joe and Luke make a very special trip to The Kimberley in Western Australia. What followed was an emotional reflection on what's most important to a loving family. 

Nick's siblings Lizzie and Joe also both struggle daily with Cistic Fibrosis, a debiltating lung disease. These factors made Nick's decision very simple. Leave for higher pay to help the family. 

"Family is number one. That's flat out... it."

Unfortunately, we've all had someone in our lives who was taken too soon. This is a powerful piece showing a family growing together and showing strength through hardship. 

"Time to kick the tires and light the fires."

6 Comments

  • hoot
    12:31 PM 07/06/2016

    Legend, Australia's best ambassador.

  • xenophile
    5:23 PM 25/05/2016

    Hilarious bloke, great value on the pitch and as we've seen over the years (and in this piece) far better value off it. Best wishes to the Cummins - I wish you all well.

  • rugbydump
    4:26 PM 23/05/2016

    Glad you guys enjoyed it. Stories like this often go untold but it's great to be able to share them

  • eddie-g
    6:15 PM 20/05/2016

    Best ambassador our game has.

  • 3:13 AM 20/05/2016

    Brilliant

  • danknapp
    7:54 PM 19/05/2016

    I was in tears at points. What a family.