NRL news 2023, Melbourne Storm team vs Sydney Roosters, Jahrome Hughes under injury cloud

Another major injury cloud is hovering over Friday’s blockbuster semi-final between Melbourne and the Roosters.

With already half a dozen stars likely to miss the game, Storm coach Craig Bellamy has now revealed halfback Jahrome Hughes is in serious doubt.

“He did a little bit of running this morning and we will see how he pulls up but, to be honest, he is probably unlikely,” Bellamy said on Thursday.

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Hughes was one of a number of players who missed the round 27 game in Brisbane, with the club citing a knee injury.

The international No.7 returned to the team last week in a demoralising loss to the Broncos, and was named for this week’s final but is now in doubt.

Jahrome Hughes of the Storm (L) celebrates scoring a try with Ryan Papenhuyzen (Getty)

He would be joining superstar teammate Ryan Papenhuyzen on the sideline, the latter who suffered a fracture in his ankle last week.

The Roosters are also missing a host of big-name players with backline stars Joseph Suaalii, Joseph Manu, Billy Smith, and Daniel Tupou all unavailable for Friday’s game at AAMI Park in Melbourne.

Tyran Wishart is on standby to replace Hughes in the Storm spine.

“Wishart did most of the training today and we have a couple of other options – he did most of the training today,” Bellamy said.

“There is obviously a bit of shuffling going on so I don’t know if the less shuffling the better or the more shuffling the better.”