3 minute read

A glance at the key match-ups in Sunday's NRL grand final between Penrith and Melbourne at ANZ Stadium in Sydney.

NRL GRAND FINAL KEY MATCH-UPS

Five-eighth

Jarome Luai (Panthers) v Cameron Munster (Storm)

Luai has been one of the brightest stars of the NRL season in just his first full year as a starting five-eighth. His combination with Nathan Cleary is electric. Meanwhile, Australia and Queensland star Munster has been a constant danger for sides over the past few years.

Prop - James Fisher-Harris (prop) v Jesse Bromwich (Storm)

The two Kiwi props are among the best in the world right now and their battle up front will be brutal. While Bromwich has long been considered one of the best in the game, everyone is starting to wise up to Fisher-Harris's value for Penrith.

Hooker - Api Koroisau (Panthers) v Cameron Smith (Storm)

The Melbourne skipper could be playing his final rugby league game on Sunday night - or not. Either way, the Storm will want to make it special just in case he pulls the pin on his extraordinary career. To do that, the Storm will need to stop Koroisau's scheming out of dummy half where he has burnt plenty of sides this season.

Second row - Viliame Kikau (Panthers) v Felise Kaufusi (Storm)

Dangerman Kikau will be fresh and firing after missing the preliminary final through suspension. Kaufusi will have his hands full containing the strike Panther but playing in his third grand final, the Storm ace will bring composure.

Fullback - Dylan Edwards (Panthers) v Ryan Papenhuyzen (Storm)

First time on the big stage for both of these youngsters. Papenhuyzen has speed to burn and a nose for a try, scoring 10 this season. Edwards has grown in confidence and is rock solid at the back and also offers value as a second playmaker.