Melbourne Storm football director Frank Ponissi expects Craig Bellamy to make a decision on his future in the coming weeks.
Despite speculation mounting about Bellamy moving to either the Cronulla Sharks or Brisbane Broncos in a director of coaching role, Ponissi says the Storm are confident that the three-time premiership coach will remain at the club.
“I think there’s a reality that they (Cronulla) are definitely keen on him,” Ponissi said on SEN Afternoons.
“I think that’s reality, but with Craig accepting that offer I’m not really sure.
“Matt Tripp and the owners have been liaising with Craig and they’ve always been confident that he will remain.”
While Bellamy has repeatedly stated 2021 will be his last year in the head coaching position, Ponissi says the Storm haven’t given up hope on him changing his mind and taking on the role for one final season in 2022.
“We haven’t given up hope that he may even extend being a head coach for the next 12 months,” he added.
“He keeps saying he’s not, but there’s a slight chance of him coaching.
“Whilst we haven’t got his signature on a contract he’s open to all other offers and all other interest.
“The time will come, but with Craig I don’t think you’re going to see that for too much longer, I think you’ll see a decision in certainly the next few weeks.”
Like Bellamy, a decision is expected from Cameron Smith in the coming weeks regarding his future, but Ponissi says the Storm are planning for life without the future Immortal.
“At the moment, we're planning life without Cameron,” he added.
“But, if that were to change late, we'd also be ready for that as well.”
If Smith opts to play on, it is speculated that he will decide between playing one final season at the Storm, or end his career with the Gold Coast Titans.
Listen to Ponissi’s full chat with Dwayne in the audio player below.
