The Mole: Craig Bellamy Set to Work His ‘Magic’ on New Storm Signing with Premiership in Sight

After the Panthers parted ways with several key players from their grand final-winning squad during the off-season, bookies have deemed Melbourne the frontrunners for this year’s title.

With mastermind Craig Bellamy potentially at the helm for his final campaign and a majority of his squad remaining intact, the prospects for the Storm look promising.

Melbourne has trimmed some excess weight, is nurturing promising young talent from its ranks, and has brought in Tigers powerhouse Stefano Utoikamanu to bolster their forward rotation.

Having shown promise at the Tigers, keep an eye on Utoikamanu as he blossoms into a top-tier front-rower under Bellamy’s guidance.

The depth at the Storm is so impressive that emerging star Sua Fa’alogo may struggle to secure a spot in the 17-man squad for the opening round.

Bellamy commands the finest spine in the NRL, featuring the electrifying Ryan Papenhuyzen at fullback, the dynamic duo of Cam Munster and Jahrome Hughes in the halves, and top hooker Harry Grant donning the No. 9 jersey.

He has constructed a team that revolves around these four stars, with each player fulfilling their role admirably.

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The wing partnership of Will Warbrick and Xavier Coates consistently finds the try line, while Nick Meaney remains undervalued in the centres, and Jack Howarth emerged as one of the league’s most improved players in 2024.

While the forwards are primarily workhorses, Eli Katoa stands out as he transformed into one of the league’s most threatening wide runners last season, thanks to some of Bellamy’s trademark innovation.

Grant is an exceptional operator out of dummy-half, and while opposing coaches anticipate his moves week in and week out, they often find themselves powerless to counteract his skill.

2025 Acquisitions

Stefano Utoikamanu (Wests Tigers), Moses Leo (NZ rugby)

2025 Departures

Reimis Smith (Catalans Dragons), Young Tonumaipea (retired), Aaron Pene (Leigh Leopards), Chris Lewis (retired), Tepai Moeroa (released)

Best Signing:

Utoikamanu stands out as the sole notable addition for the club, and after competing with the wooden spooners in prior seasons, he will relish playing amongst a winning squad.

This Season’s Key Player:

The flashy Sua Fa’alogo may not feature in the team for round one but will surely have his opportunity to impress and establish himself as a first-grade regular.

He has the skill set to succeed, without a doubt.

Primary Concern:

There are some worries regarding depth in the forwards, although having most of the Storm pack remain unselected for Origin duty could prove beneficial.

Forecasted Finish: 1st

Expected 17 for Round One:

1. Ryan Papenhuyzen 2. Will Warbrick 3. Jack Howarth 4. Nick Meaney 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Harry Grant 10. Josh King 11. Shawn Blore 12. Eli Katoa 13. Trent Loiero 14. Tyran Wishart 15. Joe Chan 16. Tui Kamikamica 17. Alec MacDonald

Odds for Winning the Championship: $3.85