NRL Match Preview: Raiders v Storm

The Raiders travel south, hungry for a result after last week’s second‑half comeback against the Eels fell just short. The squad showed resilience despite the absence of key players and will look to carry that energy into Sunday's match.

The return of Blues stars Hudson Young and Ethan Strange will strengthen the Canberra side and provide experience to the young squad. Savelio Tamale will return from concussion and take up his position on the wing to threaten the Storm’s edge defence.

Meanwhile, the Storm are fresh off a bye and will benefit from a home crowd in Melbourne. They will be eager to find momentum after a slow start to the season that has left them in 11th place. Origin players Cameron Munster, Harry Grant and Trent Loiero have all been named to back up in Melbourne, while the remainder of the squad will be rested and ready.

Talking points:

• The Raiders have won five of their last seven games at AAMI Park.
• It is Ricky Stuart’s 800th game as a player (243 games) and coach (557 games).
• The Raiders have won their past two matchups against the Storm.
• Storm five-eighth Cameron Munster is expected to make his 250th NRL appearance.

Last time they met

The Raiders defeated the Storm 26-22 at GIO Stadium for Round 7 this season.

Key Matchup: Joe Tapine v Stefano Utoikamanu

With leaders needing to stand up during an Origin effected period, a showdown between two of the competitions most fierce front rowers takes centre stage for the round 16 key matchup, as Joe Tapine and Stefano Utoikamanu come face-to-face.

Continuously asserting himself as one of the premier front rowers in the competition, Joe Tapine’s worth becomes immeasurable during times of need.

Week in and week out the four-time Meninga Medalist and club captain leads ferociously from the front, characterised by his relentless carries and unbreakable defensive efforts.

On the attacking front, a lot of Tapine’s damage is done in contact, running for a staggering 730 post contact metres in 2026.

On Sunday afternoon, Tapine comes head-to-head with one of the most highly touted front row talents in Stefano Utoikamanu.

Another strong ball carrier, Utoikamanu currently has his nose just in front for post contact metres, with 14 more than his main rival.

Arriving at Melbourne with a world of potential, Utoikamanu has continued his development into one of the games most feared front rowers during his second year at the club.

Fans will be closely watching the showdown between Tapine and Utoikamanu, as both front rowers will be looking to own the middle of the field and earn their teams a much-needed victory on Sunday afternoon.