NRL fans blast Cameron Smith after Parramatta Eels v Melbourne Storm monologue

Cameron Smith has copped a lashing on social media after his attempt at a feisty pre-match monologue fell flat before the NRL season opener.

Melbourne Storm great Smith was on punditry duty for Channel 9 ahead of his side’s curtain raiser against the Parramatta Eels, and was tasked with the gee-up before the game begun – which is widely loved when performed by Phil Gould.

But viewers were left less than impressed by Smith’s awkward effort as he struggled to read the autocue. 

A particularly embarrassing moment occurred when Smith left dead air as he struggled to compute what he was required to say next.

‘It’s all up to the teams now,’ he says before pausing awkwardly and pointing to camera. ‘Get ready, it’s going to be a huge season. It’s all here live and free on Nine.’

More to follow.