Rugby world shaken as multiple Melbourne Storm stars face potential code switch, with a major move already in the works
Cameron Munster has become the newest name linked to a high-profile crossover from NRL rugby league to rugby union, attracting significant interest from both Rugby Australia and the rebel competition R360. But Munster isn’t alone—several key Melbourne Storm players are now at crossroads with their contracts, prompting speculation about their futures.
In the weeks leading up to the recent NRL grand final, a third party connected to Rugby Australia reportedly made an approach to Munster, signaling serious recruitment efforts from the union side. Simultaneously, R360 has reportedly placed Munster firmly on a target list that includes other Storm stars like Payne Haas, Zac Lomax, Jye Gray, and Ryan Papenhuyzen.
What makes this situation especially intriguing is Munster’s openness to R360’s offer, which could mean a substantial financial boost for switching from league’s 13-a-side format to the 15-man union game. Currently, Munster earns about $1.15 million per season under his contract running through to the end of 2027—yet he once turned down a jaw-dropping $6 million four-year deal with the Dolphins in 2023 to stay at the Storm on a smaller salary.
Adding more fuel to the fire, the Perth Bears have also been linked to Munster as a potential destination. His manager Braith Anasta openly confirmed that while formal contact from R360 hasn’t occurred, there’s clear interest, especially from Perth.
“We haven’t had any official talks with R360, but there’s definitely some buzz,” Anasta explained. “Cameron hasn’t committed to Perth yet, but they want him, and he’s open to the idea. The Storm are already planning ahead for when his contract ends because they might not be able to match the offers then.”
Beyond Munster, his Storm teammates Jonah Pezet, Nelson Asofa-Solomona, and Ryan Papenhuyzen are all facing pivotal contract decisions that could reshape their careers. Notably, Ryan Papenhuyzen might be allowed to leave if he opts to join R360, a move that insiders say could come as soon as the end of next year.
Sports reporter Brent Read highlighted, “There’s talk that if Papenhuyzen wants to switch to rugby, it might be better for him to do it now. His form hasn’t been at its peak this year, and he sometimes seems distracted.”
Papenhuyzen could be offered a lucrative contract to change codes, and well-known journalist Phil Rothfield didn’t mince words about the Storm’s stance: “If they accept he’s going to R360, just give him a one-way ticket out.”
Jonah Pezet is another heavyweight name potentially on the move. Anasta revealed Pezet could activate a clause making him a free agent immediately and has been linked to clubs like the Raiders, Rabbitohs, Cowboys, and Knights.
“It’s a huge period coming up for Jonah,” Anasta stated. “He loves Melbourne and has thrived there, but he’s ready for the next step, and there’s only so much longer he can wait.”
Meanwhile, Nelson Asofa-Solomona’s future with the Storm looks uncertain despite his contract running through 2027. Read shared, “I don’t think he’ll remain at Melbourne next year. They've had discussions with him for some time. I've heard he was offered to the Warriors but they passed.”
This off-season promises to be one of the most transformational in recent memory for the Melbourne Storm, with a potential exodus that could spark debates about loyalty, financial pressures, and the evolving landscape between rugby league and rugby union.
And here’s the kicker—how will fans react if beloved stars leave for rival codes? Is this just smart career advancement or a betrayal of club loyalty? Share your thoughts below: do you agree with players chasing big paydays and new challenges, or should loyalty to the club and code come first?
