NEWS
MUNSTER DELAYS PNG CHIEFS TALKS TO FOCUS ON STORM SEASON

Paula DAVID By Paula DAVID |

MUNSTER DELAYS PNG CHIEFS TALKS TO FOCUS ON STORM SEASON

Melbourne Storm captain Cameron Munster has confirmed he has postponed discussions with NRL expansion club the PNG Chiefs, saying now is not the right time to consider his future while the Storm remain in the middle of their premiership campaign.

Munster had been granted permission by Melbourne to visit Papua New Guinea and inspect the Chiefs' facilities alongside recent signing Zac Lomax. However, the Queensland Maroons skipper chose to cancel the trip after details became public.

Speaking on the 167 Podcast, Munster said he believed making the visit during the season would have created unnecessary distractions.

"I was meant to fly to PNG and have a look at the facilities, but with all the hype around it, I thought it wasn't a good look for myself or the club," Munster said.

"The boys are preparing for games, and I just didn't think it was the right time. I'll wait until November 1 and see what happens then."

Munster thanked Melbourne Storm for allowing him to explore his options but said his immediate focus remains on helping the club finish the season strongly.

The veteran playmaker also acknowledged that family considerations will play a major role in whatever decision he makes.

"I've taken pay cuts throughout my career, but I've got to make sure my family's in a great position long-term," he said.

"Footy doesn't last forever and I want to make sure my kids are financially secure."

Munster remains contracted with Melbourne, although his long-term future continues to attract interest from rival clubs, including the PNG Chiefs, who are preparing for their inaugural NRL season.