Ryan Papenhuyzen act lights up NRL after horrific Melbourne Storm setback

NRL fans are thrilled for Ryan Papenhuyzen after the Melbourne Storm fullback returned from his latest injury setback to show glimpses of his talent in the pre-season match against the Bulldogs. Despite finishing second last in 2023, the Bulldogs showed signs they could be in for a better season ahead having defeated the Storm 24-12 in the pre season challenge.

However, the return of Papenhuyzen, having not played since dislocating his ankle in September, had fans out of their seat as the 'flying mullet' showcased his skills in an encouraging display. Despite being only one of three regular starters for the Storm playing on Thursday, the fullback set-up a try and scored one on Thursday night.

BRUTAL: Cleary smacks down ugly claim about Panthers after Crichton's exit

NEW DETAILS: Manly's telling move to combat smaller field in Las Vegas

BOMBSHELL: Cowboys rocked by release request on eve of 2024 season

Papenhuyzen has only played three NRL games and six rugby league matches since breaking his knee cap in July 2022 against the Canberra Raiders. His return last year saw him play three games, before dislocating his ankle in horrific scenes.

Papenhuyzen was selected in the extended Blues squad back in 2020, but has been ruled out for representation selection since due to injury. And both Storm and Blues fans will be hoping to see the form of the fullback return in 2024.

The fullback has the talent to light up the NRL season and coach Craig Bellamy wanted to lower expectations of the 25-year-old ahead of his eagerly awaited comeback. “I didn’t expect him to start the season to be honest, but he’s kicked on better than I thought,” Bellamy said ahead of the game.

“There will be a couple little demons there because he’s had such a bad run... we probably want him to be a bit selfish tonight and look after himself and get through and grow in confidence.” But the speed shown for his try, which saw him burst through the line in a kick-chase, silenced any doubt over the superstar's return.

"Pezet is a really talented kid and I knew he could pull off that kick - I just had to be on the end of it," Papenhuyzen said of his try. "I feel really quick. My top speed I recorded in 2018. I've hit 94 per cent of that and back then I was 60 kilos and now I'm 83. Whether that's my new top speed or not I don't know, but I feel really confident I can hit it now. It's just nice."

NRL fans lose it over Ryan Papenhuyzen return

While Papenhuyzen was pleased with his own display, fans from all teams were excited to see him back. The superstar fullback showcased his speed and appears ready for the first round of the NRL.

The Bulldogs would have come out of the run happier with Matt Burton and Drew Hutchison impressing as the first-choice halves. Bronson Xerri returned to the NRL after a four-year drug ban and impressed with a try and 161 running metres. Stephen Critchton will also have a battle on his hands for the No.1 jersey after a strong display from Blake Taaffe.

Sign up to our newsletter and score the biggest sport stories of the week.