Cameron Munster Defends Kangaroos Anthem Habits

The veteran player addresses ongoing public discourse surrounding Kangaroos team members not singing the national anthem.

Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Australia and New Zealand

Cameron Munster Defends Kangaroos Anthem Habits

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Should athletes be required to sing the national anthem when representing their country in sports?

Cameron Munster has come to the defence of the Kangaroos rugby league team following public criticism regarding players failing to sing the national anthem. The issue surfaced again after several squad members did not join in during the pre-match ceremony against New Zealand.

Why it matters

The choice by players to refrain from singing the national anthem has prompted repeated public debate about team culture and national representation. By speaking out, Munster aims to shift the focus back to the team's professional performance on the field.

The Kangaroos played a full 80 minutes against New Zealand, following a historic precedent of silent anthem participation dating back to the 1994 tour of England. These instances contrast with other matches, such as the 2023 Pacific Championships.

The players

Cameron Munster

He is a professional rugby league player who has represented the Australian Kangaroos in international competition.

Latrell Mitchell

He is an established rugby league player known for his contributions to the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the national team.

Reece Walsh

He is a prominent rugby league fullback currently playing for the Brisbane Broncos.

The details

Footage captured by Channel 7 cameras showed players like Latrell Mitchell, Bradman Best, and Keaon Koloamatangi not singing, while Reece Walsh was visibly emotional during the anthem. Munster spoke to Triple M to explain that these individual choices do not detract from the team's commitment to the Kangaroos.

1994: Players did not sing the national anthem during the tour of England.
2023: Players did not sing the national anthem during the Pacific Championships.
October 2026: Kangaroos players did not sing the anthem against New Zealand.

Travel Outlook

The current discourse reflects a long-standing pattern of non-participation in anthem singing observed during the 1994 Kangaroos tour of England. This recurring dynamic suggests that individual player expression remains a consistent feature of the team's international touring culture.

Fans travelling to see the Kangaroos play should be aware that pre-match anthems often generate significant public and media commentary. Those attending matches in Australia or New Zealand can expect to see ongoing discussions regarding team culture and player expressions during these events.

The takeaway

The debate highlights a persistent difference between individual player autonomy and expectations of national representation in rugby league. Understanding this context helps fans navigate the commentary surrounding the team's pre-match traditions.