The Melbourne Storm has made a significant announcement regarding their roster for 2027, revealing the signing of Kelma Tuilagi on a one-year contract.
At the end of the current season, Tuilagi is set to leave the Parramatta Eels and return to his roots at his hometown club, where he developed through the Victorian pathways after moving from New Zealand.
With the arrival of Jaydn Su'A poised to claim the second-row position at the Eels, coupled with the presence of industrious Jack Williams and rising talent Kitione Kautoga, Tuilagi was unable to secure a contract extension for the upcoming year.
Originally part of the Storm's NRL squad in 2020, Tuilagi went on to make his NRL debut with the Wests Tigers in 2021, clocking in a total of 88 NRL games with the Tigers, Manly Sea Eagles, and Eels.
"We're delighted to have Kelma returning to Melbourne Storm and Victoria in 2027," expressed Frank Ponissi, the club's director of football.
"Kelma has a strong connection to the Club. He was part of the 2020 Premiership-winning squad and came through the Victorian rugby league system, so it's fantastic to bring him back after he's established himself as an NRL player.
"He's a powerful, athletic forward who has continued to develop over the past few seasons. He'll add experience and physicality to the forward pack, and we're excited to see him back in a Storm jersey."
Born in Samoa, Tuilagi has also represented his nation at the international level during the 2022 World Cup.
His addition enhances the Storm's depth in the second row for the future, especially with Shawn Blore's departure from the club and uncertainty surrounding Eliesa Katoa's return to play.