Cameron Munster Departs Origin Camp Following the Heartbreaking Loss of His Father, Steven

Queensland Maroons coach Billy Slater has sadly announced the passing of Cameron Munster’s father, Steven Munster.

In light of this, Munster will temporarily leave the camp to be with his family, planning to return for Origin III.

“On behalf of myself, our footy team, and the state of Queensland, we extend our heartfelt thoughts, love, and condolences to the family and friends of Steven Munster,” Slater stated on Sunday morning.

“In particular, we remember his wife, Debbie, his daughter Danielle, and, of course, his son Cameron.”

Former teammate Cameron Smith described the news as “devastating.”

“Losing a parent is always heartbreaking. I experienced the same pain after losing my mother just a year ago, so I can relate to what Cam is going through right now,” he shared on Nine’s Sunday Footy Show.

“It’s reassuring to see the team standing strong together, even though the sport waits for no one. They have a job to do as they prepare for the game on Wednesday, and knowing Cameron personally, I believe he’ll be motivated to play for his father.”

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Slater delivered his heartfelt message with the entire Queensland team gathered around him for support.

Former NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler anticipates a stellar performance from the five-eighth amidst these challenging circumstances.

“He tends to excel when faced with obstacles, and there is no greater challenge than this… I’m certain his father would have been proud to see his son captaining Queensland; this incident adds another chapter to State of Origin and Cameron Munster’s ongoing journey,” he remarked.

“We all wish him the very best.”