Melbourne Storm have 11 players in action across Round 2 of the Rugby League World Cup.
Tonga v Lebanon - Friday 23 October
Stefano Utoikamanu has been rewarded with a starting spot at prop for Tonga’s Round 2 clash against Lebanon in Sydney on Friday.
The Storm enforcer made an immediate impact in his World Cup debut last week, playing 45 minutes off the bench and scoring his first Tongan try in the 30-12 win over England.
Papua New Guinea v Samoa - Saturday 24 October
Fresh from his four-try haul in Samoa’s opening-round win over France, Sua Fa’alogo has been named to start on the wing for Saturday’s clash with Papua New Guinea.
Fa’alogo delivered an electric performance in Round 1, scoring four tries, with six line breaks and 253 attacking metres.
Shawn Blore retains his place on the Samoa bench after a strong opening performance, crossing for his first World Cup try in the 55th minute.
New Zealand v Cook Islands - Sunday 25 October
Jahrome Hughes retains the halfback jersey for New Zealand as the Kiwis face the Cook Islands on Sunday, with incoming Storm recruit Jamayne Isaako named on the wing.
Storm pathways players Amare Milford and David Tuariki have been named to make their Cook Islands debuts, with Davvy Moale starting at prop and K-Ci Newton-Whare selected on the bench following his Round 1 debut.
Australia v Fiji - Sunday 25 October
Cameron Munster has been named on the bench for Australia’s Round 2 clash with Fiji in Brisbane on Sunday, with Harry Grant rested and listed as a reserve.
Both players impressed in the opening round as the Kangaroos defeated New Zealand in Sydney.
Pathways winger Joseph Litidamu has been named among Fiji’s reserves and remains in contention to make his international debut if promoted to Sunday’s squad.
The Club wishes all Melbourne Storm players and staff the very best for the second round of the tournament.
