The Melbourne Storm's plans for the future have been rocked by the confirmed departure of two important squad members, with Nick Meaney and Tyran Wishart both set to leave the club at the conclusion of the 2026 NRL season.
Key Duo Head West for New Opportunity
While the Storm have not officially announced the destination for the pair, strong reports indicate they are bound for the newly established Perth Bears, who are scheduled to enter the competition in 2027. The move represents a significant coup for the expansion club and a substantial loss for the Victorian powerhouse.
Meaney, 28, who has solidified his role as a starting centre for Melbourne, previously acknowledged during the off-season that he had held discussions with incoming Perth coach and rugby league legend, Mal Meninga. Wishart, 26, has been an invaluable asset off the interchange bench, covering multiple positions with reliability and skill.
Fan Favourites Reflect on Purple Legacy
Both players debuted for the Storm in Round 1 of the 2022 season and have since become firm fan favourites, featuring in the club's heartbreaking grand final losses in the past two years. Their contributions have been integral to the team's sustained success.
Storm General Manager of Football, Justin Rodski, expressed the club's disappointment but understanding regarding the decisions. "Both Nick and Tyran have been fantastic contributors to our club over the past four seasons," Rodski stated.
"It's always difficult to lose people of the calibre of Nick and Tyran but we understand their decision given the opportunity in front of each of them. We know both players will be looking to finish their time in purple on the best possible note."
Focused on a Strong Finish Before the Move
In separate statements, the departing players shared their gratitude for their time in Melbourne while affirming their commitment to the Storm for the next two seasons. Meaney, who also serves as the team's primary goal-kicker, described the choice to leave as his toughest.
"Coming to this club was the easiest decision I've ever made, but deciding to leave has been the hardest," Meaney said. "My wife and I are forever grateful for everything this club has given us."
Wishart echoed the sentiment, thanking the Storm for launching his first-grade career. "I'll be forever grateful to Storm for many things, but especially for giving me the opportunity to play first-grade footy," Wishart remarked. "I'm fully committed and focused for a big 2026."
The exits mark a pivotal moment for the Storm's long-term recruitment and retention strategy, as they prepare to rebuild without two versatile and experienced campaigners. All eyes will now be on how the club navigates the player market to fill the impending void left by Meaney and Wishart's move to Perth.
