Recent developments in the National Rugby League include Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy's contract extension, Cameron Smith's new assistant coaching role with the Brisbane Broncos alongside speculation about his future, Cameron Munster's projected retirement timeline, and an encounter between NRLW player Jasmin Strange and a bull shark.
Craig Bellamy Extends Tenure with Melbourne Storm
Craig Bellamy has officially extended his contract as head coach of the Melbourne Storm until the end of the 2028 season. This new agreement supersedes his previous contract, which was set to conclude in 2026. By the end of this extended tenure, Bellamy will have completed an extraordinary 26 consecutive seasons coaching the Storm.
Under Bellamy’s influential leadership, the Storm have achieved remarkable consistency, reaching the finals in 22 of his 23 seasons. The only exception was in 2010 due to salary cap breaches. His teams have contested 11 grand finals, securing victory in five of them. More recently, Melbourne experienced grand final losses in the 2023 season against the Broncos and in the 2024 season against Penrith. It was also noted that the Titans had previously sought Bellamy for their 2027 head coaching position.
Bellamy stated that coaching the Melbourne Storm is an honor, expressing his dedication to the club, its personnel, history, and supporters. He indicated he would continue coaching as long as the club believes he can contribute.
Storm Chairman Matt Tripp acknowledged Bellamy's significant contributions to rugby league, expressing confidence in his ongoing leadership at the club.
Cameron Smith Joins Brisbane Broncos Amid Coaching Speculation
Cameron Smith, who holds the record for playing 433 matches for the Melbourne Storm, has taken on a new role as an assistant coach for the Brisbane Broncos. His appointment is for the 2026 season, where he will serve under head coach Michael Maguire.
Smith's specific responsibilities with the Broncos are currently undefined, though he has already been involved with players at a recent training camp in Toowoomba. Reports suggest he is expected to focus on mentoring emerging talent, particularly hookers. Head coach Michael Maguire highlighted Smith's broad involvement, including working with leaders, coaching staff, and providing valuable player insights.
Mat Rogers suggested on SEN radio that Smith's move to the Broncos could be a strategic step toward potentially assuming the head coaching role at the Melbourne Storm, succeeding Craig Bellamy.
Rogers believes Smith's role with the Broncos might be temporary, with his ultimate ambition being to coach the Storm. He emphasized the potential need for an internal candidate familiar with the Storm's established system to eventually take the reins.
Cameron Munster Discusses Retirement Plans
Melbourne Storm player Cameron Munster, who is scheduled to turn 32 this year, has offered insights into his potential retirement timeline. Munster's current contract with the Storm is set to run until at least the end of the 2027 season.
During an appearance on The Today Show, Munster indicated that he anticipates playing for "two or three more years," describing this timeframe as "realistic" for retiring on his own terms. This approach aims to avoid being forced out of the game prematurely by injuries.
For the upcoming season, the Storm are preparing to rely on a younger cohort of squad members. Key players such as Eli Katoa, Nelson Asofa-Solomona, and Ryan Papenhuyzen will not be available due to various circumstances.
Jasmin Strange Encounters Bull Shark in Byron Bay
NRLW player Jasmin Strange, a premiership winner with the Roosters, experienced a startling encounter with a bull shark while surfing in Byron Bay. Strange was surfing alongside Ella Turner when a shark became visible in the background of a photo they had taken.
Strange later stated on Instagram that she and Turner were completely unaware of the shark's presence until they reviewed their pictures.
The presence of a bull shark in the area was subsequently confirmed by NSW Fisheries, underscoring the reality of the close encounter.