The stage is set for the highly anticipated 2024 NRL Grand Final, with Penrith Panthers and Melbourne Storm preparing to battle for rugby league’s most coveted prize. Both teams have finalised key decisions, with Penrith’s Scott Sorensen returning from injury and Melbourne’s rookie Lazarus Vaalepu stepping up for the Storm.
Sorensen’s Return Bolsters Panthers’ Line-up
Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary confirmed during Saturday’s captain’s run press conference that Scott Sorensen would make his return in the rugby league grand final. Sorensen, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury, has passed fitness tests to rejoin his team. His return strengthens Penrith’s forward pack, providing the club with an extra weapon against the Melbourne Storm. Sorensen’s absence from both finals matches was a blow for Penrith, but Cleary’s faith in his forward has paid off, just in time for the biggest game of the season.
Cleary hinted that Sorensen’s return would push Matt Eisenhuth out of the final 17, with the latter likely to miss the grand final NRL clash. Cleary also revealed that Daine Laurie had been named as a replacement player, further solidifying the team’s readiness for the match.
Melbourne’s Rookie Vaalepu Set for Grand Final Debut
On the other side of the field, Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy announced that rookie Lazarus Vaalepu would step up to replace suspended forward Nelson Asofa-Solomona in the NRL final. Bellamy’s decision, revealed during the pre-match press conference, solidifies Melbourne’s plan to stay aggressive in the forwards despite Asofa-Solomona’s absence. Vaalepu has impressed during his time with the Sunshine Coast Falcons, earning him a coveted spot in the grand final NRL 2024 line-up.
Melbourne’s forward options were also trimmed down to 19 players, with Joe Chan remaining in the reserves. Despite Chan’s experience, Bellamy has decided to trust Vaalepu’s form and energy as the Storm seek to overcome the well-drilled Panthers in the final.
Key Injuries and Final Preparations
Both teams have endured injury setbacks throughout their finals campaigns. For Melbourne, key players Harry Grant, Nick Meaney, and Jahrome Hughes picked up knocks during their preliminary final win over the Roosters. However, Bellamy confirmed that all three would be fit and ready to play in the grand final NRL 2024.
Meanwhile, Penrith received a significant boost as star halfback Nathan Cleary declared his shoulder fit ahead of the grand final. The team’s depth will be further supported by Brad Schneider, who has been named on the bench, ready to provide injury cover if necessary.
Game Time and Venue Details
Rugby league fans can catch the grand final at Accor Stadium on Sunday, 6th October 2024, with the game set to kick off at 7:30 pm AEDT. With both teams finalising their squads, anticipation is growing for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the NRL Telstra Premiership season.
For Penrith, this is an opportunity to cement their legacy with another premiership. Melbourne, on the other hand, will look to upset the reigning champions and clinch their own victory. As the teams prepare for this grand spectacle, fans are eagerly asking, “When is the NRL Grand Final?” and “Who will lift the trophy in the 2024 grand final NRL?”
Teams Overview: Storm and Panthers Line-ups
Both teams boast strong line-ups, with key players like Melbourne’s Ryan Papenhuyzen and Cameron Munster, and Penrith’s Nathan Cleary and Brian To’o. The battle between the Storm’s hard-hitting forwards and the Panthers’ well-oiled defensive machine will be crucial in deciding who wins the 2024 NRL final.
Conclusion
The 2024 rugby league grand final between the Melbourne Storm and Penrith Panthers promises to be a memorable encounter. With Scott Sorensen returning for the Panthers and rookie Lazarus Vaalepu getting his shot for the Storm, both teams are ready to leave everything on the field. As fans continue to ask, “When is the NRL grand final 2024?” all eyes will be on Accor Stadium this Sunday, where the best of the NRL will compete for ultimate glory.
