Queensland Maroons Coach Faces Crucial Decision Over Cameron Munster
Queensland Maroons coach Billy Slater is facing one of the most challenging decisions of his coaching career, as speculation grows around whether Cameron Munster will retain his spot in the team following the latest loss by the Melbourne Storm. This comes after Munster admitted that the Storm are struggling with their performance and recent developments surrounding coach Craig Bellamy.
The Storm suffered their seventh consecutive defeat in the NRL after falling to the Dolphins, leaving them with a difficult path to qualify for the finals in 2026. Despite a standout moment from Sua Fa’alago in the first half, the Storm appeared disoriented in the final 40 minutes, allowing the Dolphins to end their losing streak and climb to 10th place.
The Storm conceded 24 or more points for the sixth game in a row. However, it was their attacking play that raised concerns this time. Harry Grant failed to inspire his team as he has done in the past. Meanwhile, Munster’s form has once again drawn criticism, with the talented playmaker looking out of sync in 2026. In the defeat to the Dolphins, Munster did not produce a single attacking stat.
Munster ran for 54 metres without a tackle break. He also failed to provide a try assist or a linebreak assist, marking another lackluster performance in 2026. Although his defensive efforts improved last week against the Rabbitohs, with a tackling success rate of over 90 per cent, his overall performance remains a concern for Slater.
With the Maroons dealing with several issues in their squad, the composition of the forward pack is one of Slater’s most critical decisions. However, the decision regarding Munster could be the defining call of the series.
Despite being one of the best Origin players of all time, Munster’s current form does not justify his selection in 2026. His efforts last year were an example of his reliability, but he has only led the Storm to two wins this season. Fans are questioning whether Slater might make the bold move to drop Munster this series, similar to his decision to bench Daly Cherry-Evans in 2026.
Munster Addresses Storm’s Form
After the game, Munster spoke with Sam Thaiday about the team’s struggles. He admitted that the Storm have been underperforming in the second half of games in 2026, which has made it difficult for them to compete in close matches.
Munster also mentioned that the team is dealing with several personnel issues. Tui Kamikamica and Eli Katoa are currently sidelined due to medical reasons. Additionally, on Thursday, the Storm announced that coach Bellamy was diagnosed with an unspecified neurodegenerative disorder, which has had a significant impact on the NRL community.
“Yeah, we have been doing it all year, starting well and falling off at the back end of the second-half. We had some good opportunities, but ill-discipline with the ball. There crucial with the new game rules,” Munster added.
“I don’t think we had the ball for the last 15 minutes. We just got to understand as a team, and an individual, you are the most important person. It’s frustrating. If you don’t laugh, you cry.
“It’s unfortunate for us at the moment. Bit of a tough ride with Tui, Eli and now Craig Bellamy. It’s a rocky road at the moment, but all we have got to do is stick together.”
Storm General Manager Comments on Bellamy
Storm general manager of football Frank Ponissi addressed the media instead of Bellamy during the post-match press conference. “It’s been a big week for Craig. With respect, he was never coming in (to media), win lose or draw,” Ponissi said. “He has been through a lot with his family, but the way he coached tonight, you wouldn’t think anything was wrong. He is quite remarkable.”
