LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Team list Tuesday is set to reveal some big changes for the Storm this week, but one seasoned player has declared that he will be lacing up his boots and hitting the field in Townsville to take on the Cowboys.
Veteran prop Christian Welch has confirmed that he will be suiting up for the clash on Thursday night, citing that the Storm have "earned the right" to give some of their regular stars a well-deserved rest after clinching the minor premiership with time to spare.
The specifics of who will be getting a break are still up in the air, but it's expected that Dally M contender Jahrome Hughes and State of Origin representative Harry Grant will be among those given a night off, along with others who have been putting in the hard yards all season.
A decision will be made on whether they will return for the final game in Brisbane.
Players like Welch, who recently made a successful return from injury, will be making the trip up north to Townsville.
The prop is looking forward to seeing some of the younger Storm players get a chance to shine, much like Sua Fa'alogo and Jack Howarth did when they debuted in the final round against the Broncos last year.
"I've been out of action for about a month, so a rest isn't in the cards for me as I need to build up my match fitness.
There are a few other guys who have missed some games throughout the season who will also be taking the field," Welch explained.
"There will be some exciting opportunities for the unsung heroes who have been putting in the hard yards all year.
They may not get the spotlight like the regular starters, but they play a crucial role in pushing the Storm team during training.
"We affectionately call them the Renegades, as they take on the role of the opposition during the week.
It'll be an interesting week at training with plenty of senior players on the other side of the field, doing their best impressions of the Cowboys to help us prepare."