Melbourne Storm dealt blow as Tyran Wishart eyes exit

Daniel Long

Melbourne Storm dealt blow as Tyran Wishart eyes exit image

Tyran Wishart

The Melbourne Storm’s off-season has taken another hit, with utility Tyran Wishart expected to test his value on the open market - just as rival clubs circle Warriors halfback Luke Metcalf.

Wishart played 27 games for the Storm in 2025, proving his versatility as Craig Bellamy’s go-to utility option, but The Daily Telegraph reports he’ll explore rival interest from November 1.

The 25-year-old remains contracted until the end of 2026 after the club activated an extension, but with limited starting opportunities, Wishart is reportedly eager to find a team where he can play bigger minutes.

His potential departure adds to a growing headache in Melbourne, as several key figures - including Cameron Munster and Ryan Papenhuyzen - face uncertain futures beyond next season.

MORE: ‘If that’s what he thinks is best’: Munster backs Bellamy’s potential Titans switch

Storm’s roster squeeze deepens

The Storm have already re-signed Jahrome Hughes, but that move triggered a clause in Jonah Pezet’s contract, allowing the young playmaker to speak with rival clubs.

Wishart, who impressed in the halves during late-season wins over the Broncos, Panthers and Bulldogs, is seen by Bellamy as one of the club’s most valuable depth players.

However, with limited game time and interest building elsewhere, the versatile playmaker could be tempted to chase a full-time role at another club.

Meanwhile, the Storm’s focus isn’t just on player retention — coach Craig Bellamy’s future also looms large, with chairman Matt Tripp eager to keep him beyond 2026 amid reported Titans interest.

Metcalf joins list of stars testing market

Compounding the drama, Warriors halfback Luke Metcalf is also set to test his value after a breakout season in New Zealand.

Two NRL clubs are believed to have already reached out ahead of the November 1 negotiation window, as the 26-year-old weighs his options.

With multiple stars off-contract and rival clubs circling, the coming months could prove crucial for Melbourne as they look to steady their roster for 2026 and beyond.

Daniel Long

Daniel Long is a contributing Wires Writer at The Sporting News based in Australia.