LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
It's been a disastrous seven days for the Melbourne Storm, with three star players now in major doubt to play again this season. Jahrome Hughes fractured his arm on Thursday night as the Storm suffered back-to-back losses for the first time since 2023.
The 30-14 loss to the Broncos was an unmitigated disaster, with forward Nelson Asofa-Solomona now facing a potential season-ending ban. This comes on the heels of Shawn Blore fracturing his larynx last week, leaving coach Craig Bellamy uncertain about his return this year.
Hughes experienced the biggest setback during the game, leaving the field in the first half. The reigning Dally M medallist was returning after dislocating his shoulder six weeks prior and fractured his arm attempting to tackle Brendan Piakura.
He initially tried to continue playing but winced in pain when throwing a pass shortly after the tackle. Hughes had his arm placed in a cast post-game, with Bellamy acknowledging that his season is likely over. "I'm not quite sure if it's the wrist or just halfway on the forearm," Bellamy stated after the game. "They pretty much think it's a break without a doubt, he's in plaster already, so that wasn't a great idea to put him back this week. I'd imagine it's season-ending."
To exacerbate the situation, Asofa-Solomona was put on report after being sin-binned for a high shot on Piakura. With two prior charges this year, the Kiwi international may face another suspension. A grade-two high tackle or dangerous contact charge would lead to a minimum three-game ban, while a grade-one shoulder charge incurs the same penalty. Notably, players cannot opt for a fine for a third shoulder charge offense this season.