Storm’s Forward Withdrawal Looms Over Upcoming Showdown
The Melbourne club confirmed Ativalu Lisati will miss up to four weeks with a calf strain sustained at training. The injury arrives before Friday night’s grand final rematch and removes a starting option from the forward pack.
Immediate team changes
In a statement released Thursday night, the club outlined several lineup adjustments. Alec MacDonald will return from concussion and start at second-row in Lisati’s place.
The interchange bench also changed. Trent Loiero returns after a two-game suspension, and playmaker Trent Toelau could make his Storm debut.
Details of the injury and timing
Lisati suffered the calf strain during a recent training session. He is expected to be sidelined for about a month.
Squad context and other absences
The club is already missing Eli Katoa for the season. Katoa was ruled out after a serious head injury sustained during international duty.
The loss of Lisati further tests Melbourne’s depth in the back row. The Storm’s forward withdrawal now looms over the upcoming clash.
Player background
Lisati is 25 years old and made his NRL debut late in the 2024 season. He recorded 14 appearances last year and had started this season in the No.12 jersey.
His early-season form had earned him a key role in the forward rotation. That role will now be covered by returning and fringe players.
Match stakes
Melbourne seek to extend an unbeaten start and notch a third straight win. The contest is a high-profile rematch against the Broncos on Friday night.
Brisbane enter under pressure after consecutive losses. The Broncos will be eager for an upset on the road.
- Injury: Ativalu Lisati — calf strain — out ~4 weeks.
- Replacement: Alec MacDonald returns from concussion to start second-row.
- Bench: Trent Loiero back from suspension; Trent Toelau may debut.
- Other absence: Eli Katoa out for season with head injury.
Filmogaz.com will monitor further squad news and injury updates ahead of the match. Final team sheets are expected closer to game time.
