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Storm superstar Cameron Munster on sobriety and agent switch to Braith Anasta

The Melbourne Storm superstar has opened up on sobriety, fatherhood and reworking his image with new manager and former NRL heavyweight Braith Anasta

NRL superstar Cameron Munster has given his new manager Braith Anasta the green light to critique his flaws – even on national television.

“For sure, that’s what I like about him,’’ Munster said.

“He’s a straight-shooter and if I need criticism, or if I need someone to give me a rocket, I’m sure he’ll be the first person to give it to me.’’

In a major coup for Anasta’s management company, Munster will be guided by the former NRL champion and host of Fox League’s NRL 360 as the Melbourne Storm footballer ­embarks on transforming his image on and off the field.

Melbourne Storm star Cameron Munster breaks his silence since his white powder scandal. Picture: David Geraghty
Melbourne Storm star Cameron Munster breaks his silence since his white powder scandal. Picture: David Geraghty
Former NRL star Braith Anasta has become Munster’s player agent. Tracey Nearmy/Daily Telegraph
Former NRL star Braith Anasta has become Munster’s player agent. Tracey Nearmy/Daily Telegraph

The partnership brings together two of the most influential figures in rugby league – and is another significant major step in Munster’s bid to clean up his image.

“If Cam wanted a ‘yes man’, he wouldn’t have joined our team at Searoo Sports Management,’’ Anasta said. “I’ll tell him ­exactly what I think straight between the eyes.

“That’s what rugby league players need … A lot of the guys get in ­trouble because they just surround themselves with people that tell them only what they want to hear.’’

Munster’s decision to reach out to Anasta was prompted after his glittering career came to a crossroads last year. The Test and Queensland State of Origin five-eighth was ­involved in a white-powder scandal that saw him enter a rehabilitation centre to address his alcohol and gambling addictions.

A father to 10-week-old Jackson with partner Bianca, Munster, 27, decided to start fresh, which included splitting from his previous agent.

Video footage of Munster pictured dancing during the white-powder scandal.
Video footage of Munster pictured dancing during the white-powder scandal.
The Storm and State of Origin star says he is out for an image change.
The Storm and State of Origin star says he is out for an image change.

“I’m that excited to try to change that image of myself and I know Braith is excited for the challenge also,’’ Munster said. “I really just want to be a better person, not only on the field, but off the field as well.

“There are a lot of people in the community that call me a grub and that stuff, so I want to separate from that image for my family … I want to improve as a person for the younger kids coming through.

“We all make mistakes, but I want to make sure the younger fellas learn from my decisions.

“I’m five-months sober, I haven’t touched a single drop … I’m just ­enjoying the little moments with my young boy at the moment.’’

Munster in action during the NRL Trial Match between the Melbourne Storm and the Newcastle Knights last month. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images
Munster in action during the NRL Trial Match between the Melbourne Storm and the Newcastle Knights last month. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

After a decorated 288-game career, Anasta said he would bring his personal experience to the fore to guide Munster.

“He’s entering a new phase in his life,’’ Anasta said. “I’m on board as a mentor, who has been there and done it.

“I think we’re a really good fit right now for him … The best is only ahead of him.”

Originally published as Storm superstar Cameron Munster on sobriety and agent switch to Braith Anasta

Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/nrl/storm-superstar-cameron-munster-on-sobriety-and-agent-switch-to-braith-anasta/news-story/cecc170107c3a192ed77cb8769fd5b50