LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
'Sooner rather than later': Cameron Munster expected to be back sooner than expected for the Storm
In a twist of fate, Ryan Papenhuyzen is set to make his grand return from injury on Friday night, and another Storm star is primed to make a swifter comeback than anticipated.
Coach Craig Bellamy has sung Papenhuyzen's praises, citing his stellar efforts in training as the reason for his immediate return to the lineup without any stint in reserve grade.
With the ladder leaders hopeful of welcoming back Cameron Munster earlier than projected, it seems the Storm's roster is shaping up nicely.
The unfortunate Papenhuyzen has been sidelined since sustaining a minor fracture in the same ankle he injured last season.
The dynamic fullback is geared up to make his comeback against the Dolphins, marking his first game since round 9.
While Sua Fa'alogo has admirably filled in at the back, he will be shifting to the wing to accommodate Papenhuyzen's return.
The flashy fullback, known for his knack for scoring, will add his electric flair to the game as he looks to build on his seven tries from eight games in 2024.
"His confidence has been sky-high this week, and his leadership and communication skills have been invaluable," remarked Bellamy ahead of the impending top-four clash.
"I had my reservations about whether he would need some game time in the Queensland Cup or here, but his self-assurance in his ability to man the fullback position flawlessly for the full 80 minutes was reassuring.
"He's been putting in the hard yards at training for the past few weeks, so slotting him back into the lineup was a no-brainer."