Storm eye another grand final – Craig Bellamy’s men are just 80 minutes away from another decider. With Cameron Munster’s big-game temperament and Jahrome Hughes’ creativity, Melbourne’s spine remains their greatest weapon.
Sharks chase a fairytale return – Cronulla are looking to book their first grand final appearance since their famous 2016 triumph. Nicho Hynes, up against his old club, looms as the match-winner.
Big-game experience vs rising challengers – The Storm’s wealth of finals experience contrasts with a Sharks side desperate to prove they belong on the game’s biggest stage.
✅ The winner advances to the NRL Grand Final on October 5 at Accor Stadium.
📋 Late Mail and Team News
The Storm have named Jahrome Hughes, despite him playing only one game in the past two months (recovering from a fractured forearm). He is a risk pick.
Ryan Papenhuyzen is confirmed to return at fullback after recovering from concussion.
Shawn Blore, sidelined in recent weeks with a larynx injury, has been named on the interchange bench.
For Cronulla, Tom Hazelton is ruled out (concussion) and Toby Rudolf was penalised earlier in the week for a high tackle but cleared to play.
The Sharks’ line-up is mostly unchanged except for Hazelton’s enforced absence; Oregon Kaufusi is expected to fill in.
📊 Head-to-Head & Form Guide
🆚 Sharks vs Storm
Head to Head (Since 2013): Storm 15 wins, Sharks 9 wins
At Venue – AAMI Park (Since 2013): Storm 11 wins, Sharks 3 wins
Last 5 NRL Matches:
Storm: W, W, L, L, W
Sharks: W, W, W, W, W
💰 Betting Snapshot (Sportsbet)
Match
Head-to-Head
Line
Total Points
Storm vs Sharks
Storm $1.38 / Sharks $3.04
Storm -8.5 $1.91 / Sharks + 8.5 $1.91
Over 41.5 $1.82 / Under 41.5 $1.99
💰 Grand Final Winner
Team
Odds
Storm
$2.90
Panthers
$3.10
Broncos
$3.75
Sharks
$8
Odds courtesy of Sportsbet. Gamble responsibly. As at 8am, Friday September 26
