NRL: Storm to rest stars for Townsville trip

Melbourne Storm look set to rest some key players when they take on North Queensland on Thursday night.

The Storm have already wrapped up the minor premiership and can now turn their attention to the finals campaign.

That will mean resting key players in the hope it will help them go on and win the 2024 NRL grand finals.

Craig Bellamy’s side can be backed at 3.25 to win the premiership and prevent Penrith Panthers from winning a fourth on the bounce.

The Cowboys have already secured their place in finals but will be keen to build some momentum heading into them.

A win over the Storm, even a weakened one, will give them a boost and Todd Payten is unlikely to rest players.

The Cowboys can be backed at 15.00 to reach the NRL grand final.

. What: North Queensland Cowboys v Melbourne Storm
. Where: Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville
. When: 19:30 (AEST), Thursday 29th August
. How to watch: Kayo, Foxtel, Channel 9
. Odds: North Queensland Cowboys 1.20, Melbourne Storm 4.50

Cowboys target strong finish

The Cowboys returned to winning ways at the weekend with an impressive 38-point win over the Canberra Raiders.

It was just what the doctor ordered after losing to Brisbane Broncos in the derby clash, and they will now look to kick on.

Finishing the regular season with wins over the Storm and Canterbury Bulldogs would set them up nicely heading into finals.

Queensland Country Bank Stadium has not been a fortress for the Cowboys this season, winning just six of the 11 games played there.

However, they do have a great record against the Storm at the venue, winning the last two meetings.

They came out on top 45-20 in Round 14 last season and won the previous game 36-6.

The Cowboys will also be boosted by the return of Jeremiah Nanai from concussion and Jason Taumalolo, who is back after a cheekbone injury.

Kyle Feldt is in great form for the Cowboys, scoring seven tries in the last four games, and he will be out to keep that run going against the Storm.

Storm duo to be rested

Storm coach Craig Bellamy will spare some key players the long trip to Townsville now the minor premiership is in the bag.

The 48-6 win over the Dolphins means top spot is secured so Jahrome Hughes and Harry Grant will be among the players to have earned a rest.

The Storm have won eight of their last nine away games, but Townsville has not been a happy hunting ground.

However, with some players out to make the most of starting spot in the side, breaking the hoodoo cannot be ruled out.

Bellamy is also keen to secure his 400th NRL win, so the Storm still have plenty to play for.