LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Melbourne Storm legend Cameron Smith has given his support to Ryan Papenhuyzen's return to the NRL, backing coach Craig Bellamy to introduce the fullback this week.
Papenhuyzen has been sidelined for nearly a year with a fractured kneecap he sustained in a game against the Raiders.
He has since played three games in the Queensland Cup and is on the cusp of making his NRL comeback.
Bellamy and the Storm have been tight-lipped about when they will deploy Papenhuyzen in first grade, but have hinted that it could be before the finals.
Smith, however, believes that this weekend is the perfect time to introduce the talented fullback.
Speaking on SEN Radio, Smith stated, "I think they have to throw him in, at some stage he has to go in and I don't think there's a better time than this week." He pointed out that the Storm will be facing the Titans in Melbourne, followed by a match against the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium, where the Broncos are currently performing well.
Although Papenhuyzen is considered one of the best fullbacks in the league when he's in form, Smith acknowledged that he hasn't played a game in a year.
In his absence, Nick Meaney has been filling the role admirably.
Smith suggested that introducing Papenhuyzen off the bench could be a wise decision.
With the finals approaching, it is crucial for the Storm to assess Papenhuyzen's readiness for the high-pressure matches that lie ahead.
Bellamy and the coaching staff will have to make a difficult decision on when to bring Papenhuyzen back into the starting lineup.
It is a delicate balance between giving him enough game time to regain his form and ensuring that he is not rushed back too soon, risking further injury.
With Smith's endorsement and the Storm's success this season, fans eagerly await Papenhuyzen's return to the NRL and the impact he can make in the final stages of the competition.