Report: Cameron Munster could be released by Storm over off-field antics, Melbourne responds
AN explosive column has reported that Cameron Munster could be released by the Melbourne Storm as a direct result of ongoing off-field antics, having made powerful enemies at the club with his behaviour.
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AN explosive column has reported Cameron Munster could be released by Melbourne as a direct result of ongoing off-field antics.
But the Storm have categorically denied the speculation in a short statement on Twitter and the report was published on the same day as Melbourne’s first trial game of the pre-season, with Munster taking his place in the starting side for their behind-closed-doors clash with the Knights.
Storm coach Craig Bellamy spoke to Channel Seven after the match and echoed the club’s earlier statement.
“I can honestly say that I have never been in any discussions at this club where we’ve spoken about releasing Cameron Munster,” Bellamy said.
“If they have had talks about that, our club, then I wasn’t there.”
NRL.com claims Storm officials and some players — most notably captain Cameron Smith — are fed up with the talented utility for the way he behaves and his attitude.
It follows Fox Sports’ chief NRL reporter James Hooper last week revealing Munster had been sent home from Kangaroos camp for punching on with teammate Ben Hunt during the World Cup.
In response to speculation on social media, Melbourne Storm is not releasing or considering releasing, Cameron Munster from his Storm contract.
— Melbourne Storm (@storm) February 7, 2018
NRL.com reports the club is considering releasing the 23-year-old from his contract, which runs to the end of 2019.
Craig Bellamy is famous for running a tight ship, with a foundation of discipline and professionalism led by senior players like Smith and Billy Slater.
Munster is known for being a bit of a party animal and has felt the wrath of Bellamy in the past.
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He revealed to NRL.com a spray from Bellamy after a trial game a few years ago.
He was out drinking until 1am on game day, and the premiership-winning coach blasted Munster in front of teammates for his actions.
“He ripped me a new one. Pretty much in front of everyone, he questioned if I really wanted to play rugby league and really wanted to be at this club,” Munster told NRL.com.
“He said ‘what would you rather do, dig holes or play football for us?’. He didn’t say it in that nice of a tone.
“I went back home and had a bit of a chat and realised that this was something I wanted to do.
“That was a turning point for me and I started trying to pull my head in as much as I could.”
Munster won a premiership with Melbourne last year, and made his debut for Queensland and then Australia either side of the grand final.
Originally published as Report: Cameron Munster could be released by Storm over off-field antics, Melbourne responds