LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Parramatta Eels have been hit with unexpected news as captain Mitch Moses has been ruled out of their season opener against the Storm.
This is a major blow for the team as they will now have to rely on Ronald Volkman, who missed the entire 2024 season.
The club announced that Moses will miss the game in Melbourne due to soreness from a previous foot injury he sustained last year.
Eels coach Jason Ryles expressed the need for a cautious approach to ensure Moses fully recovers, stating, "We will continue to monitor Mitch's recovery and make an assessment on a return date next week."
The absence of Moses adds to the challenges the Eels face as they prepare to take on a formidable Storm side that has never lost in round one under the leadership of coach Craig Bellamy.
Despite the Storm's own injury concerns with players Ryan Papenhuyzen and Xavier Coates, both being in doubt, they are still expected to put up a strong performance.
Meanwhile, the new era at the Wests Tigers is also facing difficulties, with key players Jahream Bula, Starford To'a, and Api Koroisau all unavailable for their upcoming match.
This has led to Heath Mason being named at fullback and Tristan Hope coming off the bench.
The team will need to work together to overcome these challenges and put on a competitive showing on the field.