EXCLUSIVE: Legendary ex-Queensland captains share vital adjustments Cameron Munster needs to embrace following ‘significant honour’

Former Queensland captains Wally Lewis and Darren Lockyer have voiced their support for Cameron Munster, offering words of wisdom to the freshly appointed skipper.

Munster steps into the role after Daly Cherry-Evans was dropped, as he prepares for the crucial Origin II in Perth. He triumphed over fellow NRL captains Harry Grant, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, and Kalyn Ponga for the prestigious position.

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This decision from coach Billy Slater is intriguing, especially considering Munster’s past off-field controversies and his never having held a captaincy under Storm coach Craig Bellamy.

The cheeky five-eighth was notably sent home from a Kangaroos camp in 2017 by Mal Meninga after a clash with teammate Ben Hunt.

His leadership was also questioned in 2021 when he faced disciplinary action from Melbourne due to a drug-related incident, coupled with a suspended $100,000 fine issued by the NRL.

Lockyer, who has a storied career as a captain for club, state, and country, believes Munster will need to “adapt” quickly.

“He’ll need to modify his approach somewhat, as this is a significant responsibility,” Lockyer explained on Wide World of Sports’ QLDER.

“He might conduct himself differently in training, but come game time, I believe this challenge will elicit his very best.”

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“With this role comes responsibility. It’s important to motivate your team to perform well in preparation, and then lead by your actions come game night.”

“While you may sometimes need to speak up, ultimately, your performance on game day holds the most weight.”

“This is undeniably a great honour.”

“Everyone craves victory, but as captain, that desire intensifies, as the responsibility lies with you. When it’s a close match, it’s your role to make a significant impact on the game’s outcome,” he noted.

Lewis, one of the pioneering captains for Queensland and a figure held in high esteem, sees the same insatiable winning spirit in Munster, who has been crowned by some as the new Lewis in the five-eighth position.

Having clinched the Wally Lewis Medal during the 2020 Origin series, Munster stands out as one of the premier players for the Maroons over the last decade.

“I firmly believe he’ll lead by example,” Lewis commented in QLDER.

“He won’t alter his playing style significantly… throughout all the games I’ve observed him in with Melbourne Storm, he’s been a shining example.

“Captaining Queensland is always exhilarating; the pride associated with it is immense. Just play your usual game and don’t deviate too much.”

“There might occasionally be hefty calls to make, but aside from that, it’s all about performing as you naturally do.

“When the team looks like they need a spark, find a way to inspire them to elevate their game.”

Munster expressed his heartfelt emotions on Tuesday about being entrusted with the captaincy by Queensland legend Slater.

However, this promotion comes at a cost, sidelining his close friend Cherry-Evans, who will be replaced at halfback by Tom Dearden.

The Maroons face a must-win situation in Perth to keep their series hopes alive after their defeat in the opening match at Suncorp Stadium.