Dolphins’ Munster offer ‘out of line’

MELBOURNE has lodged a formal complaint after Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett claimed he hoped to sign Cameron Munster for next season – even though the superstar fiveeighth is under contract next season at the Storm.

And in a further display of its anger, Melbourne will submit an additional protest to the NRL should the Dolphins continue to pursue Munster for next season.

Bennett went public this week, claiming the Dolphins were “keen to have Cameron at Redcliffe, whether it is 2023 or 2024”.

The Storm – while not commenting publicly – saw red over a comment it felt bordered on “arrogant”.

Melbourne management contacted the Dolphins through two different avenues with a message that was simple yet stern: “Cameron Munster is not available for release in 2023. Zero chance.”

There is a feeling at Melbourne that Bennett is attempting to “undermine” the Storm, with angst reportedly building between the two clubs over Munster (pictured) even before Bennett’s comments.

Melbourne has acknowledged Munster can be chased for 2024 – when he is off contract – but want rival clubs to immediately stop attempting to poach the Queensland Origin champ away from Victoria while under contract for 2023.

Should the Dolphins further agitate for Munster next season, Melbourne will then take the matter to the NRL.

A club can be accused of breaching NRL rules by encouraging a player to break his existing contract.

The Storm has no plans to release Munster from the final year of his deal. In fact, Bennett’s comments have only fortified Melbourne’s already hard-line stance about Munster completing his deal.

Melbourne also believes it can – in coming months – secure an extension to make sure Munster remains a one-club legend at AAMI Park.