Melbourne Storm’s Dally M halfback Jahrome Hughes played through a broken hand during Thursday night’s intense match against Penrith Panthers, which the Storm won 30-24. Hughes’ injury was confirmed by scans on Friday, revealing a hand fracture that requires surgery and will keep him sidelined for two weeks.
Hughes joins teammate Nick Meaney on the injured list, as Meaney sustained a fractured cheekbone during the game. Nelson Asofa-Solomona, who collided with Meaney, also failed a subsequent HIA and will miss the next match.
The brutal grand final rematch took its toll on both teams, with Panthers’ star halfback Nathan Cleary suffering a category 1 concussion and being ruled out for next week’s match against South Sydney. Cleary’s injury occurred during a collision with Hughes, who broke his hand at another point in the first half but continued playing for 50-60 minutes.
Penrith coach Ivan Cleary reported that Nathan Cleary seems okay and remembers the incident, which is a positive sign. However, the Panthers will be without Cleary and NSW Origin fullback Dylan Edwards next week.
Melbourne Storm will also face challenges in their upcoming matches, as they will play without Hughes against the Dragons and Sea Eagles. Utility Tyran Wishart is likely to replace Hughes at the scrumbase, while back-up half Jonah Pezet is another option to partner Cameron Munster in the halves.
The intense match between Melbourne and Penrith was marked by several clashes, including a running battle between Cameron Munster and Liam Martin. However, Munster avoided any charges for a reported hip drop on Martin.
In other news, Melbourne’s Grant Anderson and Eliesa Katoa were cleared of knee injuries, and Ryan Papenhuyzen will be available next week despite rolling his ankle late in the game. Penrith’s young halves, Jack Cole and Blaize Talagi, held their own in Cleary’s absence, particularly considering Talagi was making his club debut.