Cameron Munster has declared he’ll stay at the Melbourne Storm if Craig Bellamy remains coach, but said he’ll ultimately do what’s best for his young family. In a huge indication he might be lured by the mega-money on offer at the PNG Chiefs, Munster pointed out he’s taken pay-cuts at the Storm in the past.
The Queensland State of Origin captain is under contract until the end of 2027, and was recently given permission to speak with PNG before November 1. But Munster and the Chiefs both backed out of touring Port Moresby last weekend because Munster felt it wasn’t a good look.
Cameron Munster says he’ll do what’s best for his family. Image: Getty/Bianca Munster
Speaking on Wednesday, the 31-year-old said he’ll be keen to stay in Melbourne if Bellamy remains past his current contract – which runs until the end of 2028. But he said he’ll also consider what’s best for wife Bianca and their three young children.
“I don’t want to say too much about it but I’m not sure what his coaching future looks like. If he stays, I’ll stay, so there’s a bit of pressure on your back, Craig,” Munster said.
Cameron Munster has three little kids to think about. Image: Getty
“I’ve got to make sure it’s right for me and my family. If he’s not sure what he wants to do, sometimes you can’t wait for someone else when you’re making decisions for your family.
“I love Craig and I love the Melbourne Storm. I’m not saying I’m not going to stay, but November 1 comes around and I’ve got to make sure I do the right thing for me and my family.
“I’ve taken pay cuts throughout my career. I’m not saying I won’t take one again, but I’ve got to make sure my family’s in a great position long-term. Footy’s not everything, and it doesn’t last forever. I’ve got to work after footy, so I want to make sure I’m financially stable for myself and my kids.”
Craig Bellamy happy to let Cameron Munster decide
Munster will be 33 when the Chiefs play their first game in 2028. Bellamy and the Storm gave him permission to speak with PNG early out of loyalty to him.
“‘Mun’ has done a whole heap for our club and he’s done it over a long period of time,” Bellamy said last week. “He’s been a wonderful player with our club, so if he sees that he wants to go to the team in Papua New Guinea … I’d be happy to let him go.”
