'Got plenty left': Storm optimistic about star's return

Ryan Papenhuyzen will take a year off professional sport in 2026, according to Storm official Frank Ponissi, but could return the following year.

Papenhuyzen requested a release with one year remaining on his contract with Melbourne, with claims that he was to join R360.

But the start of the rebel league was pushed back until at least 2028, leaving Papenhuyzen without a club next year.

READ MORE: England bowler axed, visitors spill on 'belting time' in Noosa

READ MORE: 'Stop this rot': Ponting calls for major Stokes batting shift

READ MORE: Star hammers BBL century, Afridi forced to stop bowling

Ponissi, Melbourne's director of football, said Papenhuyzen could make his way back to rugby league in the future, but he has dealt with many injuries over the past few years, leaving him mentally fatigued.

"I hope does (return to the NRL) … But in fairness to Paps, he's gone through a fair bit over the last few years," Ponissi told radio station SEN.

"He showed enormous resilience, but the stress and everything it took to get through all those injuries took its toll.

"He's only 27, and he's still got plenty left.

"If he re-energises himself in 12 months, we might see him back, which would be a great thing for the game.

"Having a year off might be the tonic for him to come back and continue."

It's unclear if Papenhuyzen will be welcomed back to the Storm if he returns to the NRL.

The Storm is tipped to have Sua Fa'alogo play at fullback next year.

Fa'alogo has shown plenty of potential in his 22 NRL appearances, playing seven games on the wing last season with injuries taking their toll.

"Nothing has been confirmed yet, but just talking to the coaches, I know I have to work hard first and take my opportunity," Faalogo said.

"I have to work hard for that jersey. You have to work first and then hopefully get the opportunity.

"It would be so good to put that jersey on."

If Papenhuyzen does return to the NRL, he will have no shortage of suitors lining up for his signature, with the Dragons and Cronulla said to be interested.