LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a shocking revelation, Melbourne's Cameron Munster has been revealed to have been playing with a knee infection since the State of Origin series.
The news comes amidst a fan uproar over the resting of players for the final round of the NRL season.
Munster is just one of many stars who will be missing from the last round of matches, as the Storm have already secured their spot in the finals.
Melbourne Storm football boss, Frank Ponissi, explained the decision to rest Munster, stating, "We didn't bring Cameron Munster up (to Brisbane) because he has been carrying an infected knee since Origin." Ponissi further elaborated that giving Munster a rest now would ensure he is in a better state to play in the first week of the finals.
With Munster out, Jayden Nikorima will step in to fill the vacant No.6 position.
This will be only Nikorima's 10th NRL appearance, as he partners with Tyran Wishart in the halves.
Regular No.7 Jahrome Hughes is also out with an injury sustained in a match against the Titans.
The decision to rest Munster and other key players has sparked controversy among fans who feel they have been "robbed" after purchasing tickets for what will now resemble more of a reserve grade contest.
However, with Melbourne's place in the finals secured and unable to reach a top-two finish, the Storm see this as an ideal opportunity to give their influential playmaker a well-deserved break.
As the NRL season reaches its climax, the issue of resting players continues to be a topic of debate.
For now, Munster will focus on recovering from his knee infection and preparing for the intense finals ahead.