Cameron Munster a chance to return as Melbourne Storm firm for top spot as Dylan Edwards till out for Penrith

Scott Bailey
AAP
The returning halfback starred in golden point.

Melbourne’s minor premiership charge could be boosted by Cameron Munster’s imminent return, with the star five-eighth back on the Storm’s extended bench.

Munster was on Tuesday the biggest name returnee across the NRL, named in the No.20 jersey for Melbourne’s clash against Parramatta.

The Storm superstar has not played since suffering a serious groin injury in Magic Round in May, that also ruled him out of Queensland’s State of Origin campaign.

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But a return now appears likely with the Storm also naming Christian Welch (back) and Nelson Asofa-Solomona (hamstring) to return after missing the win over Sydney Roosters.

The prospect of Munster back in Melbourne’s side should ring alarm bells for the rest of the competition.

The Storm already sit four points clear of nearest rival Penrith at the top of the competition, and are only a matter of wins away from locking up a home final.

A top-two finish would guarantee the Storm do not need to leave Melbourne until the grand final, provided they keep winning through September.

The Panthers also get their crew back together for Sunday’s clash with St George Illawarra, with only Dylan Edwards (knee) still missing after Origin.

The three-time defending premiers have named Casey McLean in the centres, with the teenager to remain in the backline after Paul Alamoti’s broken arm.

Elsewhere, the Warriors will play Roger Tuivasa-Sheck at fullback for their crucial clash against Wests Tigers, with Taine Tuaupike out with a concussion.

The Tigers will have Latu Fainu at halfback with Aidan Sezer injured, while Api Koroisau could also spend time in the halves after training there on Tuesday.

Selwyn Cobbo is back at Brisbane for their clash with Canterbury, while Liam Ison will debut at fullback for Cronulla against North Queensland.

Ben Trbojevic has moved to centre to cover for the injured Lehi Hopoate (eye socket) at Manly, who face an unchanged Sydney Roosters.

Max Feagai has kept his place in the Dragons’ backline, with Mikaele Ravalawa dropped from the team to face Penrith and Jack Bird left as 18th man.

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