Munster to Captain Maroons in Origin Opener, One Year After Father's Sudden Death

Cameron Munster will lead the Queensland Maroons onto the field at Stadium Australia tonight, nearly a year to the day after the most devastating moment of his life.

"It was heartbreaking." — Debbie Munster, on the phone call telling her son his father had died.

The Loss

Steven Munster, 58, died of a heart attack three days before the 2023 State of Origin series decider. Cameron Munster learned of his father's death while in Maroons camp, yet chose to play in the match.

He not only played—he won, dedicating the series-clinching victory to his late father.

Family's Perspective

Debbie Munster described the moment her son received the news as "heartbreaking," noting Steven's death was sudden and unexpected. She said the family is still grieving.

Danielle Kersnovske, Munster's sister, expressed concern about how the grief impacted her brother. She pointed to the emotional whiplash of captaining Queensland to a series win, followed immediately by the demands of club football with the Melbourne Storm.

"The high of captaining Queensland and winning the series, then straight back to club commitments... it was a lot."

Munster's Mindset

Acknowledging his form had been below his usual standard earlier this NRL season, Munster said he had found his rhythm in recent weeks. He noted the 2024 series will be different from last year, with New South Wales motivated to perform in front of a home crowd.

Queensland is seeking consecutive series wins, while New South Wales enters seeking redemption after losing the 2023 series.

Coach's Confidence

Billy Slater, Queensland coach, stated he never lost confidence in Munster as captain. "He's in form," Slater said simply.

Background

Cameron Munster plays five-eighth for the Melbourne Storm in the NRL and was named Queensland captain in 2023. He has credited his sister for teaching him resilience. His father was an avid sports fan who often gave pre-game advice.

The 2024 State of Origin series opener kicks off tonight at Stadium Australia in Sydney.