Harry Grant will sit out Melbourne Storm’s Round 13 clash against the Gold Coast Titans, with Craig Bellamy confirming the Queensland rake won’t travel for Saturday’s fixture at Cbus Super Stadium.
Grant returned to Melbourne following Wednesday night’s bruising State of Origin opener, and despite being physically fine, Bellamy has opted against rushing his star hooker back into action. Bronson Garlick has been named to start in his place.
“He hasn’t played much footy, but he’s OK physically,” Bellamy said. “Like the others, he’s disappointed with the result as you would be, but he seems OK this morning.
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“(I haven’t ruled him out) at the moment, but he’s probably doubtful, especially with the amount of footy that he hasn’t played.”
Storm shuffle after Origin
Xavier Coates also drops out of the 19-man squad, with Jack Howarth in line to return from a shoulder injury and fill the vacancy on the wing.
Meanwhile, Cameron Munster and Trent Loiero remain in contention to back up.
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“We’re just trying to do what we think is best for tomorrow afternoon, but also what’s right for the players,” Bellamy added.
The Storm, coming off a bye, are chasing consistency after an up-and-down run of form. Defence remains a concern, especially against a Titans side known for throwing the ball around.