LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Craig Bellamy has made a surprising decision despite calls from league Immortal Andrew Johns to slot young talent Jonah Pezet into the No.7 jersey for Friday night's NRL qualifying finals against the Bulldogs. With star halfback Jahrome Hughes sidelined due to a broken forearm suffered in last week's match against the Broncos, Bellamy has chosen to go a different route.
During an appearance on Nine's Sunday Footy Show, Johns strongly advocated for Pezet to step in for Hughes, citing the young player's impressive performances this season. Johns pointed out that Pezet's capabilities in game management and kicking would make him an ideal fit as a replacement for Hughes, who plays a pivotal role as the team's orchestrator.
"When he's come on the field, he's really made a difference. I think it's his time for sure," Johns remarked about Pezet. "If they put Pezet in he's a really good game manager. So his responsibility is to get them around the park and kick. That frees up Munster to be Munster."
Maroons coach Billy Slater supported Johns' sentiments, emphasizing that Pezet's adept kicking game could significantly enhance the Storm's control during their matches. "He's probably got the best kicking game out of the remainder of the halves that Craig Bellamy's got to choose from," Slater commented.
In contrast, Bellamy has decided to start Tyran Wishart alongside Munster for the upcoming finals clash with the Bulldogs. While Wishart may lack Pezet's kicking ability and organizational skills, he is known for being an explosive ball runner, capable of breaking through defensive lines as they tire.
Throughout this season, Wishart has frequently been the go-to choice when Melbourne's primary playmakers have been unavailable. He has demonstrated versatility by successfully covering various roles, while Pezet has primarily been confined to an interchange position. The Storm also face several challenges for the upcoming match, including the absence of suspended prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona and star fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen due to concussion protocols.
In light of Papenhuyzen's absence, Nick Meaney will again transition into the fullback role, while Joe Chan will fill in at center. Jack Howarth, who is dealing with a groin issue, has been named on an extended bench and could be a last-minute addition. Additionally, Blues prop Stefano Utoikamanu is set to return after resting in Round 27 to replace Asofa-Solomona, and the return of skipper Harry Grant from suspension means Bronson Garlick is shifted to the bench.