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Munster admits retirement thoughts amid Storm slump

3 minute read

Cameron Munster has opened up on doubts about his career as Melbourne’s losing streak and Craig Bellamy’s health battle weigh on the club.

CAMERON MUNSTER.
CAMERON MUNSTER. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

Cameron Munster has revealed he has briefly considered retiring from the NRL, as the Melbourne Storm endure a difficult stretch marked by a career-worst losing run and uncertainty around coach Craig Bellamy.

The admission comes during a challenging period for Melbourne, after the club confirmed Bellamy, 66, has been diagnosed with a form of neurodegenerative disorder.

In a statement, the Storm said the veteran coach had undergone specialist testing and would continue in his role for the immediate future, with medical advice indicating no short-term impact on his ability to lead the team.

Support has flowed from across the game, including from Ricky Stuart, a former teammate of Bellamy's at Canberra.

The situation has also resonated within the Storm playing group, particularly Munster, who has spent most of his 13-year career under Bellamy.

Speaking on the 167 podcast with former teammate Ryan Papenhuyzen, Munster acknowledged the team's form slump has affected his confidence.

He said a run of six consecutive losses, something he had not experienced before, had led him to question aspects of his game and, at times, his future in rugby league.

Munster conceded his performances have fallen short, pointing to defensive lapses and decision-making under pressure. He was notably exposed during the heavy loss to the South Sydney Rabbitohs, where Tallis Duncan crossed for three tries.

The playmaker has also struggled to spark Melbourne's attack alongside Jahrome Hughes, who will miss the clash with the Dolphins due to concussion.

Munster indicated the side is currently operating in a reactive mindset, focusing on short-term survival rather than its usual structured approach.

Despite the candid reflection, there is no suggestion Munster is set to step away, but his comments underline the pressure facing Melbourne as they attempt to stabilise their season.


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