Melbourne CEO Dave Donaghy confident Cameron Smith will go on

Melbourne CEO Dave Donaghy confident captain Cameron Smith still has the drive, desire and motivation to play on next year.

Melbourne's Cameron Smith. Picture: Brett Costello

Melbourne chief executive Dave Donaghy remains confident captain Cameron Smith still has the drive, desire and motivation to play on next year.

“When you look at Cam, what are the motivating factors to play on?” Donaghy said.

“He has done everything there is in the game but I think the opportunity to play 400 games — not only for Cameron but for the club given we are only 20 years old — it would be quite remarkable.

“When you look at the position he plays, it is kind of unbelievable (how many appearances he has made) given how professional the game is, and how big and fast these guys are getting.

“It is incredible.”

Storm CEO Dave Donaghy, left, and Cameron Smith.

Smith hinted at retirement following the Storm’s win over Cronulla at AAMI Park on Friday night, a result that meant the club qualified for their third grand final in as many years.

The comments came from left field given the assumption had been that Smith would play on next year, presenting him with the opportunity to become the first player in premiership history to appear in 400 games — the grand final will be his 384th appearance.

The Storm are already bracing for the departure of Billy Slater at the end of the season. Smith’s exit would leave another gaping hole, although the expectation in Melbourne is that he plays at least one more season.

“There is a lot of emotion around everything (last night) — Billy’s last game in Melbourne,” Donaghy said.

“Cam is 35 — he is no spring chicken but he is still one of the best, if not the best player in the game. He is still at the peak of his powers.

“For me, the hunger absolutely appears to still be there. I have no doubt that the desire and want to keep playing is as well.

“The other thing is he loves this footy club as much as anyone. He is certainly aware of the importance that he holds to the continuity of the system with some of our key leaders leaving over a period of time.”