Ryan Papenhuyzen’s Early NRL Comeback: Melbourne Storm GM Frank Ponissi Reveals Player’s Swift Recovery and Determination to Shine

According to Melbourne Storm general manager Frank Ponissi, Ryan Papenhuyzen has announced his readiness to return earlier than anticipated. Papenhuyzen, who endured a lengthy absence from the NRL after dislocating his kneecap in round 18 of the 2022 season, was sidelined for 405 days. Despite missing most of the 2023 season, he made a comeback in round 26 after playing a few reserve grade matches.

Although Papenhuyzen’s return after a prolonged absence didn’t produce remarkable results, he was expected to play a significant role in the Storm’s finals campaign, likely as a key substitute. However, his plans were thwarted in the first round of finals when he broke and dislocated his ankle in a minor incident. Despite this setback, Papenhuyzen swiftly completed his rehabilitation and returned to training. It was anticipated that he would reclaim the No. 1 jersey by round 1, but Papenhuyzen’s eagerness to return to the field suggests fans may see him in action even earlier.

While Papenhuyzen resumed full-contact training in recent weeks, the original plan was to keep him protected until the second trial match against the Knights in Fiji. However, Ponissi disclosed that Papenhuyzen pushed for an earlier return. Instead of waiting for the Fiji trial, Papenhuyzen expressed his desire to play in the first game against the Bulldogs at Belmore, much to the delight of the coaching and medical staff.

The young fullback aims to rediscover the form that earned him consideration for a New South Wales selection at the peak of his career. This is particularly important to dispel any rumors about a potential departure from Victoria, which surfaced last offseason following the emergence of Sua Faa’logo. Despite the rumors, Papenhuyzen is determined to demonstrate that he remains the Storm’s top choice for the No. 1 position.