LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL legend Andrew Johns believes that Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy should have opted for Jonah Pezet to fill the No.7 jersey against the Eels in light of Jahrome Hughes' injury.
Hughes, the star halfback, dislocated his shoulder during a recent victory against the Roosters and is sidelined for approximately six weeks.
This has raised concerns about the Storm's ability to compete without him.
Despite welcoming back key players Cameron Munster and Ryan Papenhuyzen, the loss of Hughes is significant.
The Storm's record has suffered in his absence, having lost four of their last five games since the beginning of 2024.
Tyran Wishart has been tasked with taking over the halfback position for most of this period, and Bellamy has chosen him to start against the Eels, prompting calls from fans and commentators for Pezet to get the opportunity.
Jonah Pezet, 22, is regarded as a future star yet has spent a significant amount of time as a backup behind Hughes and Munster.
Johns believes that now is the opportune moment to give Pezet a chance to shine.
He commented, "Now Jonah Pezet's on the bench in 14, I'd actually give Jonah (the start).
He's had an apprenticeship for three or four years, put him in, it's his time," during an appearance on Channel Nine's "Freddy and the Eighth."
Pezet's contract allows him to negotiate with other clubs, and with Hughes' contract extended until 2030, there's added pressure for the Storm to develop their young talent.
Although Pezet has only made 12 appearances in the last three years, his potential has garnered interest from multiple teams, and fans hope to see more of him.
While he will come off the bench against the Parramatta Eels, Johns maintains that he should be starting to fully embrace his potential as the team's future halfback.