A significant setback has hit the Melbourne Storm, as centre Chase Stanley will require a full knee reconstruction, causing him to miss the entire season.
After experiencing soreness following his standout performance in the club’s season opener, Stanley underwent an MRI on his knee yesterday.
The MRI results revealed a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, necessitating surgery and a recovery period of nine months. Stanley, who sustained a bruise to his knee during Storm’s final trial, seemed to aggravate the injury when he went to the ground un-tackled after an awkward side-step in the first half.
Despite this, he continued to play and managed to score a crucial try later in the match.
However, post-game discomfort prompted the medical staff to request the MRI, which resulted in the unfortunate diagnosis.
It seems likely that former South Sydney centre Beau Champion will take Stanley’s place in the lineup for Saturday night’s match against the Gold Coast Titans at AAMI Park.
by Buford Balony
