Cameron Munster made a poignant entrance onto Accor Stadium, looking towards the sky and seeking strength from his late father, Steven, who had passed away just hours earlier. The Queensland captain expressed a heartfelt wish for just 10 per cent of his father’s energy as he prepared for the crucial match that lay ahead.
After learning of his father’s death in the early hours of Sunday, Munster reached out to his coach and former teammate, Billy Slater, who quickly came to provide guidance and support. Slater understood the significance of family during such difficult times, having lost his own father just months prior. He encouraged Munster to take the time he needed with his family, which Munster initially hesitated to do for the team’s sake. Nevertheless, Slater’s advice proved invaluable as Munster spent two days with his loved ones, processing the loss before returning to the Queensland camp on Tuesday.
Despite the emotional turmoil, Munster led his team onto the field on Wednesday night, amidst a hostile crowd, and played an instrumental role in guiding Queensland to a remarkable 24-12 victory over New South Wales, securing an unlikely series win. Although he didn’t claim man of the match, his leadership shone through, and following the game, the full weight of his grief surfaced as he was embraced by teammates and Slater.
Reflecting on his father’s legacy, Munster shared the qualities he held dear, noting his father’s humble nature and strong work ethic. He emphasised that while family comes first, he felt a deep commitment to his team and the state of Queensland. The decision to play was not taken lightly, but his dedication to both family and rugby league guided him through his grief.
Post-match, Slater expressed immense pride in Munster’s courage to play under such circumstances, highlighting the significance of family heroes. Slater, who understands the pain of losing a father, praised Munster’s bravery, stating, “That’s one proud dad sitting up there watching his boy tonight.” The camaraderie and emotional connection shared by the team during this challenging time underscored the spirit of sport, showcasing the depth of their support for Munster in both personal and professional realms.