Melbourne Storm have received a timely boost ahead of their top-of-the-table clash with Penrith Panthers tomorrow night with star fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen re-signing with the club until the end of 2025.
Papenhuyzen, 23, made his debut for the Storm in 2019 and was already contracted until the end of next year before agreeing to a three-year contract extension.
“It’s awesome to have these three extra years locked in,” Papenhuyzen said.
“This club gave me my opportunity to play NRL and I just feel like I owe them to sign on here for a few more years.
“Hopefully it’s going to be a successful four years to come.
“I’m excited and pumped because I love everything about this club, the people involved, the fans, the members and the playing group. This is the group I want to be playing with.”
Papenhuyzen was part of the Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues extended squad last year and was in contention to play State of Origin again this season before suffering a nasty head knock at Magic Round which sidelined him for 10 rounds.
He made his comeback against North Queensland Cowboys off the bench last week and has been named there again for the match against the Panthers with Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy opting for the in-form Nicho Hynes to start in the No.1 jumper.
Papenhuyzen has scored 28 tries – including four against Brisbane this year – since making his debut two years ago, assumed goalkicking duties and will celebrate his 50th NRL game tomorrow night.
