Ryan Papenhuyzen

Storm star Papenhuyzen in doubt for Round 1; Broncos fullback sidelined: NRL Casualty Ward

A photo of Papenhuyzen in a moon boot last month had Storm fans worried and the club told foxsports.com.au that it was due to a “minor” ankle injury.

However, Bellamy told Fox League that Papenhuyzen is no guarantee to feature in Melbourne’s season-opener against the Tigers on March 12.

“We might give (Munster) a bit of time at fullback at some stage today,” Bellamy said ahead of the Storm’s trial match against the Warriors on Saturday.

“We’ve got Nick Meaney as well but we’re not quite sure if Paps will be back for the first game.

Happy Papi: Star fullback re-signs with Storm until 2025

Melbourne announced on Friday they have locked him into a three-year contract extension.

He was already under contract until the end of next season so he will stay at the Storm at least until the end of 2025 after inking this new deal.