LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a bold move that has stirred the Rugby League community, the Melbourne Storm have declared their intention to challenge Nelson Asofa-Solomona's hefty four-match suspension at the NRL judiciary.
This strategic gamble means the powerhouse prop will be absent from the upcoming grand final showdown against the Penrith Panthers.
Asofa-Solomona found himself in hot water after a fiery clash with Roosters prop Lindsay Collins during the thrilling preliminary final last Friday.
The confrontation resulted in a grade three careless high tackle charge, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the Storm's key player.
As the Storm's enforcer gears up to face the judiciary panel tonight, the club has taken a calculated risk by bringing forward the hearing to avoid disrupting their crucial training sessions.
Asofa-Solomona's fate hangs in the balance, with a double downgrade being the only lifeline that can salvage his chances of taking the field on Sunday night.
If the stars align and Asofa-Solomona's charge is downgraded to a mere grade one, the prop will only face a $3,000 fine, paving the way for his inclusion in the grand final spectacle.
However, failure to sway the judiciary's decision could mean a gruelling five-game exile for the 28-year-old, leaving a gaping hole in the Storm's lineup.
With the tension mounting and the stakes higher than ever, the Melbourne Storm are banking on their former captain's influence to sway the judiciary in their favor.
As the countdown to the grand final draws closer, all eyes will be on Asofa-Solomona and his legal team as they step up to the plate and fight for his right to play in the ultimate Rugby League decider.