LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Melbourne Storm is receiving a potential pre-finals boost with star halfback Jahrome Hughes progressing ahead of schedule in his shoulder rehab. Coach Craig Bellamy has also reached out to Cameron Munster amid discussions about recruitment efforts for the NRL's new Perth team.
Hughes suffered a severe shoulder dislocation during the Storm's round 21 match against the Roosters, necessitating a hospital visit to have it reset. However, only days later, he showcased his movement skills to the media while officially announcing a contract extension, sparking renewed optimism about his earlier-than-expected return to assist the team during the challenging finals run.
The Storm is set to face the Brisbane Broncos, who are also among the top-four contenders, this Thursday night in Melbourne, followed by another match against them in Brisbane during the final round. In addition, they will compete against other top-eight teams, the Panthers and Bulldogs, in the interim.
While Bellamy was hesitant to specify a comeback date for Hughes, he mentioned that Hughes is "coming on pretty well" and expressed hope for his return before the finals begin. "We're not quite sure of when he'll get back, but he seems to have come on," Bellamy stated. "His movements around, just around the club, he looks like he's coming on pretty well. We don't want to put a week on him (for a comeback)."