NRL 2021: Gold Coast Titans coach Justin Holbrook addresses Cameron Smith links

Cameron Smith’s playing future is looking less likely to continue on the Gold Coast, but the club hasn’t given up hope of luring another big name north.

Brandon and Cameron Smith are on the Titans’ radar. Picture: AAP

Titans coach Justin Holbrook admits he is still yet to speak with Cameron Smith about his playing future as the club eyes a move for his teammate Brandon Smith for the 2022 season.

The older of the Smith’s – Cameron – is on the Gold Coast with his family mulling over his future plans around whether he will play on with Melbourne, join another club or retire.

With his contract now expired with the Storm, speculation is rife that the 37-year-old will announce his retirement following a decorated 430-game career.

Cameron Smith is yet to make a decision on his playing future. Picture: Getty Images

However, he has been linked with a move to the Titans for the 2021 season.

Storm hierarchy were hoping to speak with Smith last weekend about his future, when chairman Matt Tripp was due to fly to Queensland from Melbourne, however that meeting has since been delayed, forcing a possible announcement until post-Christmas.

Meanwhile, Holbrook admitted he had still heard “nothing at all” from the Melbourne champion.

“I haven’t spoken to him,” Holbrook said.

“I guess he’s still yet to decide whether he wants to play on next year.

“I’m not too sure what he plans to do.”

The club is also weighing up a move for his Storm teammate Brandon Smith for the 2022 season, despite being left off a game-wide email from his manager earlier this month.

Gold Coast head of performance Mal Meninga revealed last week the club had strong interest in the 24-year-old and would be discussing a possible move to secure his signature.

Brandon Smith has been linked with a move to the Titans. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

However, a release by Melbourne will be dependent on whether the club can secure a replacement player from the Titans of equal ability.

Holbrook said the club would benefit from the New Zealand No.9's character and competitiveness.

“He obviously wants to start at hooker at a club and everyone is well aware of that,” he said.

“Not too sure how that will pan out with the Storm.

“The character that he is and the competitiveness in his game and his ability to play a number of positions is why he’s so valuable.”

The Titans also announced on Wednesday they are set to kick off their 2021 campaign in northern NSW. The club will host the Warriors February 27 for an NRL pre-season trial match at Lismore’s Oakes Oval.

Originally published as NRL 2021: Gold Coast Titans coach Justin Holbrook addresses Cameron Smith links