Wayne Bennett prefers sausages over a steak and doesn't even own a barbecue.
But that hasn't stopped the Brisbane coach's grilling habits from becoming the latest chapter in the soap opera surrounding his future and reportedly fractured relationship with club chief executive Paul White.
Ahead of Thursday's NRL clash with South Sydney, the Broncos mentor gave his side of the story after reports surfaced that players, led by captain Darius Boyd, had opted to dine at his house instead of attending White's club function last Friday.
The move was interpreted as a powerplay by Boyd in the tug of war between coach and club as Bennett, who is contracted until 2019, reportedly fights for his future at Red Hill.
Bennett laughed off the significance of "BBQ-gate" although conceded he had been caught off guard by the players' impromptu visit.
He said players weren't required to attend White's social event and were free to do as they pleased.
"I thought it was a gee-up, boys being boys ... (but) at about 6pm they started rocking in," he said.
Bennet said he told White on Thursday he would not be attending his function due to prior commitments.
"We had a great night, enjoyed each other's company and I'm pleased we did it."
The clash of engagements added another twist to a tale that has also seen Rabbitohs coach Anthony Seibold touted as Bennett's replacement.
Seibold said on Wednesday he had not spoken to the Broncos about a move north, but was happy to play along when cheekily asked which barbecue he would've attended.
"Very interesting one. To be fair I've known Whitey since I was a kid so I would probably go there," he smirked.
"I haven't had a lot to do with Wayne for a long time. But who knows. It depends what they're cooking up."
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