Papenhuyzen’s Return Date Uncertain as Bellamy Weighs Options

Storm Fullback’s Calf Injury Sidelines Him for Fourth Straight Match

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy is facing uncertainty regarding the return of fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen, whose calf injury has now sidelined him for four games, exceeding initial expectations.

Bellamy’s Injury Woes

The Storm mentor admitted he’s unsure when the dynamic fullback will be back on the field. “When it first was happening it was only going to be a week, so I’m not quite sure,” Bellamy told NCA Newswire. He added with a touch of self-deprecation, “I don’t understand injuries all that well. I haven’t done any PhD or whatever it is, so we just need to get on with what we’ve got.”

Radley Sidelined for Roosters

Meanwhile, the Sydney Roosters will be without Victor Radley for an extended period. Coach Trent Robinson confirmed the forward’s shoulder issue will likely keep him out for “three or four weeks.” He expressed a desire for the player’s return, stating, “It’d be nice to get him back and firing.”

This season, NRL players have faced extended layoffs due to injuries, with many requiring specialist treatment. For example, the average recovery time for a hamstring strain in rugby league can range from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on severity.

Round 21 Matchups Announced

The NRL’s Round 21 fixtures have been set, with the Sydney Roosters facing Melbourne Storm on Thursday at Allianz Stadium. Friday night will see the North Queensland Cowboys host the St George Illawarra Dragons, followed by the Brisbane Broncos taking on the Parramatta Eels at Suncorp Stadium.

Saturday features the New Zealand Warriors versus the Gold Coast Titans, the Penrith Panthers against the Wests Tigers, and the South Sydney Rabbitohs clashing with the Cronulla Sharks. The round concludes on Sunday with the Canberra Raiders playing the Newcastle Knights and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs facing the Manly Sea Eagles.

Bellamy Calls for Discipline

In other news for the Storm, Bellamy also commented on the need for his players to manage their aggression. He noted that enforcer Nelson Monga-Solomon must find a better balance to avoid suspensions after an incident involving an elbow on Jake Simpkin.