Bellamy given extension on coaching call, Slater could be “right in the frame” to take over

The Melbourne Storm have given Craig Bellamy more time to decide his coaching future beyond 2022.

While Bellamy is tied to the Storm until 2026, his contract allows him to step into an advisory role at any stage as he decides whether to coach on a yearly basis.

Although the Storm had originally given Bellamy until the end of March to make the call, The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio says that deadline has been extended with the 62-year-old still weighing up his future.

“It’s really intriguing this one,” Riccio said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“He originally had until Thursday to tell the Melbourne Storm whether he’d be going around again next year.

“Not surprisingly, the Storm have given Bellamy more time to think about that.

“One, it gives both Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes to consider their futures, Harry Grant I understand has re-signed and that’ll be announced next week. Bellamy’s future is so key to the Melbourne Storm.”

While assistant Marc Brentnall has long been considered an heir apparent, Riccio believes former Storm star Billy Slater could enter the frame to take over if he proves successful with Queensland’s Origin side.

“It raises the question of who comes in to after him?” Riccio asked.

“All along I’ve heard that assistant coach Marc Brentnall is in the box seat to take over, but suddenly if Billy Slater comes and proves himself as coach of the Queensland Origin team – he could be right in the frame in terms of consideration.

“It's a big, big month for the Storm as far as their future is concerned.”

The Storm will hope to improve their record to 3-1 when they face the Bulldogs at AAMI Park on Sunday afternoon.