Storm's Munster still torn on NRL future

Cameron Munster planned to have his NRL future sorted before the Rugby League World Cup, but that now won't happen with the star five-eighth still undecided.

CAMERON MUNSTER.
CAMERON MUNSTER. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

Cameron Munster has emphatically declared a decision about his future is about more than just money, admitting he is still torn on whether to move on from Melbourne after next season.

Munster will effectively become a free agent in less than four weeks, with the Melbourne five-eighth then free to negotiate with other clubs on November 1.

The Queensland State of Origin star has been at the centre of a public bidding war between the Storm and Dolphins, while several Sydney clubs will likely show interest next month.

But Munster was adamant on Wednesday any decision was about far more than a just a financial offer.

"It's not money," Munster said.

"I have been lucky enough to be in a competitive team for eight or nine years. Eight consecutive prelim finals.

"To bow out like we did this year is a bit of a sour taste in the mouth. I just want to make sure I pick the right decision and play competitive footy.

"I hate losing, as everyone does when they play competitive sport. I just want to be making sure I am still enjoying my footy and not losing every week.

"Money isn't everything. After seeing Penrith win on Sunday I just want to win it again."

Munster admitted the topic of his future had already been a talking point in the Kangaroos World Cup camp, joking coach Mal Meninga had already asked him where he was playing in 2024.

But asked by media whether he was undecided about the challenge of trying to build up a new franchise or stick in a winning culture, Munster said that was only part of the decision.

"That's something that is a nice challenge for me as well," he said.

"I have other things. I will probably be noticed more in Queensland and Sydney than I would be Melbourne. That plays a big part.

"Can I go out and have a coffee and enjoy myself and be able to eat?" But at the end of the day that's also why we play footy, for kids and fans."

Munster said he had initially planned on making a decision before leaving the World Cup on Thursday, but said he had pushed that back based on his own indecisiveness.

"Not everything goes to plan," he said.

"I would have (liked) to make a decision (so I could have) told Melbourne I was staying or going. It would have been nice to tell them before the World Cup.

"But I am just on the fence. It's nothing towards Melbourne. I just want to make sure I make the right decision for my family."