Even as his team swept towards Super Rugby Pacific supremacy, Chiefs prop Aidan Ross probably had the code's purists in convulsions, with his late-game interview at Canberra.
The highflying Hamiltonians overwhelmed the Brumbies 31-21 to clinch top spot on the competition table for the post-season.
With the NZ side ahead 31-7, Aussie Stan Sport commentators turned to Ross, subbed off and sitting on the bench, for his expert analysis of the action.
Their inquiries over the health of All Blacks halfback Brad Weber, who had failed a concussion test earlier in the contest, prompted a reply that no diehard rugby fan wanted to hear.
"Brad's back up, he's dressed and he's well," assured Ross. "He actually had a question though, he wanted to know if the Warriors had won earlier on tonight... do you guys know?"
The always-frayed relationship between union and league has flared up recently, with new Wallabies coach Eddie Jones openly raiding NRL ranks to lure players across to the 15-a-side game.
Former NZ Warriors captain-turned All Black Roger Tuivasa-Sheck will revert back to his NRL roots next season.
At the same time, many of rugby's top stars are outspoken fans of the other code, with All Blacks star Jordie Barrett visiting in the Melbourne Storm dressingroom during his Super Rugby rest week.
Commentators were eventually able to break the bad news to Ross - NZ Warriors had bowed 26-22 to Brisbane Broncos at Napier.
"You're kidding, there goes the multi," lamented Ross, with Weber cracking up on the bench next to him.
