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Melbourne Storm Release Ryan Papenhuyzen Effective Immediately

Melbourne expects an internal replacement at fullback as Papenhuyzen pauses to weigh his options.

Overview

  • The club confirmed the 27-year-old was granted an immediate release from the final year of his contract.
  • Papenhuyzen said he will take a break from rugby league to consider his future and has not named a next move.
  • Reports say the decision followed a meeting with chairman Matt Tripp, while media links to breakaway competition R360 remain unconfirmed.
  • The Storm expect Sua Fa’alogo to step into the No.1 role, and the departure eases short‑term salary‑cap pressure.
  • He departs after 113 games, a premiership and Clive Churchill Medal, plus a strong 2025 season averaging 127 metres per game following a 2023 kneecap injury.