Xavier Coates, Melbourne Storm winger, stretchered off due to training injury

Xavier Coates, the Melbourne winger, had to leave training on Thursday via medicab after sustaining an ankle injury, but he is anticipated to be ready for round one of the season.

Footage of Coates lying on his back as he was transported from the training ground circulated on social media. However, officials from the Storm have reassured fans that while he will miss the pre-season trials, he is expected to be fit for their opening match of the 2025 season against Parramatta on March 9.

According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the medicab was used as a precaution due to the lengthy walk back to the team facilities.

If Coates cannot make it back for the first game, the Storm have multiple players who can step into his wing position.

The Storm are expected to have nearly all their players available for the clash at AAMI Park in round one, aside from suspended prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona.

New signing Stefano Utoikamanu is set to play, fitness permitting, bringing a fresh dynamic to the front row alongside Asofa-Solomona.

NRL Immortal Andrew Johns expressed his belief that the Storm will clinch the 2025 premiership with Utoikamanu’s addition.

“I’m backing the Storm this year, and if Nelson had played in last year’s grand final, they would have won in 2024,” said Johns when asked which team he predicted to take the title.

“They boast the best spine in the competition – Harry Grant, Cam Munster, Ryan Papenhuyzen, and Jahrome Hughes – and if they are all fit by the end of the year, I can’t see any side beating them.

“They will also present a formidable pairing with Stefano and Nelson. Just look at Glenn Lazarus and the impact he had when moving from Canberra to Brisbane. Front-rowers are crucial.

“The Storm indicate it takes players two off-seasons to fully adapt to their systems, so while Stefano may need some time this year, he’s still going to make an impact. Next year could be when he truly shines.”