LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Christian Welch has spilled the beans on why he was a no-show on the sideline during the Melbourne Storm's epic victory over the Brisbane Broncos last week.
The footy star has assured fans that he'll be fighting fit and ready to take on the Sharks in the upcoming qualifying final.
Initially named as a reserve in the team lineup, Welch was mysteriously absent when the final squad was announced.
It turns out, a rogue golf shot landed Welch in the rough, where he had a run-in with a pesky spider.
"I'm not the best golfer, mate, so I was out there in the bushes when a little critter decided to take a nibble," Welch explained to Mark Levy on 2GB's Wide World of Sports Radio.
"Next thing I know, my leg ballooned up and got infected, and I was running a real hot fever."
But fear not, footy fans! Welch is back in action and raring to go for the next game.
With his health back on track, he's eager to hit the field and help lead the Storm to victory against the Sharks.
So get ready to see Welch bring his A-game and show the opposition what he's made of.
It's sure to be a ripper of a match!