Papenhuyzen set to extend Melbourne stay

Ryan Papenhuyzen is set to remain at the Melbourne Storm after reportedly signing a monster contract extension with the club.

According to News Corp reports, Papenhuyzen’s three-year deal is “worth more than $2 million” and will vault him into the NRL’s upper echelon of earners.

Papenhuyzen’s signature continues a big week of re-signings for the reigning NRL premiers, after coach Craig Bellamy signed a long-term deal to remain in Melbourne after overtures from both the Broncos and Sharks.

The 23-year-old joins a raft of Storm stars to be locked away long term, with Jahrome Hughes signed through 2024, while Cameron Munster and Harry Grant have deals that will run through 2023.

Papenhuyzen’s stock skyrocketed last season after a sensational year which culminated in the Clive Churchill Medal in the Storm’s victorious grand final against the Panthers.

The star fullback has missed a large chunk of this season after suffering a concussion, but made his return via Bellamy’s bench in last week’s win over the Cowboys.

Papenhuyzen was a virtual lock to be named in Brad Fittler’s NSW Origin side prior to his concussion.

A Wests Tigers junior, Papenhuyzen is set to make his 50th NRL appearance when he comes off the Storm’s bench in Round 20.

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