LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Melbourne Storm have officially announced their squad for the upcoming clash against the Cronulla Sharks at AAMI Park this Saturday night.
Head coach Craig Bellamy has had to make some strategic changes to his lineup due to injuries, giving some fresh faces the chance to show their skills on the field in this crucial showdown.
Unfortunately, fan favorite Ryan Papenhuyzen will be out of action for the next 4-6 weeks after sustaining a minor fracture in his ankle during the recent victory over the Titans.
This setback opens the door for homegrown talent Sua Fa'alago to step up and take on the role of starting fullback in his AAMI Park debut.
Furthermore, Jahrome Hughes will be absent for the next 2-3 weeks due to a calf injury, paving the way for Tyran Wishart to step into the backline and wear the prestigious No.6 jersey.
With Xavier Coates still recovering from a hamstring injury, Grant Anderson will make his first appearance in the purple jersey as he takes his place on the wing.
But it's not all bad news on the injury front, as there is a glimmer of hope that Tui Kamikamica may make his long-awaited return from a calf injury that has kept him out of action for the past two weeks.
The towering Fijian has been named in the No.22 jersey, ready to bring some much-needed muscle to the forward pack.
As the Storm gear up for this must-win match against the Sharks, all eyes will be on the new additions to the starting lineup as they look to prove their worth and secure a victory on their home turf.
The stage is set for a titanic battle between two top-tier teams, with both sides eager to claim the victory and establish themselves as contenders in this grueling Rugby League season.