Melbourne Storm has today confirmed the release of two of its most popular and brightest stars, Nick Meaney and Tyran Wishart. They are due to leave at the end of the 2026 NRL season. Both women will be players on the newly formed Perth Bears. This is a pretty big turnaround for the club, which is about to see two key contributors depart.
28-year-old Nick Meaney has been a central figure for the Storm since debuting in Round 1 of 2022. He’s been the club’s starting centre and chief goal-attacker. Before arriving in Melbourne, Meaney had been with three NRL clubs. Now, with his move to Perth Bears finalized, he is on the cusp of moving to his fourth club. His experience and contributions have been vital to the team’s recent championship runs. Despite this, they made it to the franchise’s two grand finals, both of which were lost.
Tyran Wishart, 26, has left his stamp on the Storm lineup since he debuted alongside Meaney. Recognized for his flexibility, Wishart has taken on a super-utility role this season, filling in at seven different positions on the diamond. His versatility allowed him to be the ultimate secret weapon for the squad in unexpected matches in the knockout stage.
Both players have announced their intent to leave in the wake of inflammatory discussions this past week. Meaney had discussed it with Perth Bears coach Mal Meninga during the off-season. The players are headed into an exciting new chapter. They’re keenly chasing down chances with Perth’s new A-League club.
Justin Rodski, chief executive of Melbourne Storm, was not shy about his consternation at seeing major contributors to their playing group taken poached. He stressed that the club supports their choice. “It is always challenging to see talented players leave, especially those who have contributed so much to our recent successes,” Rodski stated. “We wish Nick and Tyran all the best in their future endeavors.”
The departure of Meaney and Wishart raises questions about how Melbourne Storm will fill these gaps in their roster moving forward. Both players have been instrumental to the team’s recent tactical innovations. Their going leaves a giant hole in the club’s resources dedicated to keeping the club competitive in the NRL.
