The two most dominant teams in the NRL over the past five years, the Penrith Panthers and Melbourne Storm, are set to face off on rugby league’s biggest stage. They will meet at Accor Stadium with a singular goal in mind: to claim the coveted Provan Summons Trophy and be crowned the 2024 NRL Premiers.
The Panthers, who secured the minor premiership, enter the grand final after an impressive 26-6 victory over the Cronulla Sharks at Accor Stadium. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the Panthers controlled the game from start to finish, allowing the Sharks to score just one try late in the match. Penrith’s standout performance was marred only by a concern for star halfback Nathan Cleary, who was substituted late in the game due to a shoulder issue. His father and coach, Ivan Cleary, confirmed that Nathan will undergo surgery in the off-season, but he is expected to play without limitations in the grand final.
Meanwhile, the Melbourne Storm secured their spot in the decider with a dominant 48-16 win over the Sydney Roosters at AAMI Park. Despite being reduced to 12 men for the first ten minutes, Melbourne’s disciplined and structured approach shone through. Halfback Jahrome Hughes was instrumental once again, continuing to build his case for the Dally M Player of the Year award. Key players Cameron Munster and Ryan Papenhuyzen also delivered outstanding performances, each scoring two tries in the rout.
With an anticipated crowd of 85,000 spectators, the pressure will be immense as both teams look to deliver their best performance in the most crucial game of the season. The Storm will be without Nelson Asofa-Solomona, who is suspended, and will see Tui Kamikamica start in his place, with Lazarus Vaalepu earning a bench spot in what will be the biggest game of his career.
Penrith has named the same 17 players from their semi-final win, with Scott Sorenson listed as a game-time decision. Brad Schneider is on standby as the utility player, offering cover for the halves or hooker Mitch Kenny, a strategy that served the Panthers well during their title run last year.
