Storm interchange forward Tui Kamikamica is reportedly set to sign a new one-year deal to stay in Melbourne, in what comes as a major boost for the NRL club after recent upheaval. Kamikamica looked to have played his final game in Storm colours during last month’s grand final defeat to Brisbane but has reportedly agreed on a new deal to remain in Melbourne in 2026.
The Storm’s playing stocks have taken a hit in recent weeks following the departures of Nelson Asofa-Solomona, Jonah Pezet and Ryan Papenhuyzen, who were all granted releases after last season. Melbourne second-rower Eli Katoa has also been ruled out for the 2026 season after the brutal fallout from his recent brain surgery.
Melbourne can reportedly receive up to $400,000 in salary cap relief if they find a replacement for Katoa. And it’s understood Newcastle forward Jack Hetherington is close to finalising a deal to join the Storm from 2026 to help fill the void left by Katoa’s absence.
But the upheaval at the Storm has also opened the door for the club to extend Kamikamica, who had been linked to as many as five other clubs. The Brisbane Broncos, South Sydney Rabbitohs and several English Super League clubs were among those interested in the Fiji international, who was off contract after the 2025 season and has been a free agent since November 1.
However, News Corp reports that Melbourne have fought off interest from rival clubs and agreed on a one-year extension for the 31-year-old forward. The development comes after Kamikamica’s manager Jeff Jurotte revealed last month that ‘salary cap pressures’ had forced the forward to explore his options outside of Melbourne.
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