Tim Wigmore
Updated on: October 11, 2024 4:55 am GMT
Harry Grant, the newly appointed captain of the Melbourne Storm, is drawing inspiration from former great Cameron Smith as he leads his team into the NRL finals. With the Storm set to face the Cronulla Sharks at AAMI Park this Saturday, Grant expressed his desire to honor the legacy left by Smith, who captained the Storm to three premierships during his illustrious career.
Leadership Inspired by Legacy
Grant emphasized the profound impact that Smith had on the club and his responsibility to uphold that standard. “It inspires you; you want to do your part for the club and leave the club in a good place,” Grant remarked during a press conference on Wednesday. He noted that Smith, who played the same position as Grant—hooker—was instrumental in shaping the team’s identity and success.
Having missed the Storm’s last premiership-winning campaign in 2020 while on loan to Wests Tigers, Grant feels fortunate to have learned from not only Smith but also other Storm legends like Billy Slater and Cooper Cronk. Their mentorship appears to have helped the 26-year-old adapt to his leadership role with remarkable agility.
Preparing for the Finals
As Melbourne approaches the finals, Grant expressed confidence in maintaining the same approach that has characterized their successful season. “It’s just important we keep doing what we’ve done all season,” he stated. “You’re just going out, playing another 80 minutes of football, but internally, you know your strengths and you know what needs to raise a level.”
Last year, Melbourne was eliminated from the finals in a preliminary match against the Penrith Panthers. However, Grant feels optimistic about this season’s squad, particularly due to the growth of younger players. He highlighted back-rowers Eliesa Katoa, Shawn Blore, and Trent Loiero, as well as utility Tyran Wishart, winger Will Warbrick, and center Jack Howarth, as key players who have made significant improvements throughout the season.
Adapting to Challenges
Grant acknowledged that injuries to crucial players, including Cameron Munster, Ryan Papenhuyzen, and Xavier Coates, have inadvertently strengthened the team’s dynamic. He noted that these challenging circumstances have helped to galvanize the group and offer other players the chance to step up in their absence. “It’s really galvanized the group and given guys an opportunity throughout the year to come in, play a few games and feel really comfortable and confident with their standings within the squad,” he explained.
With the finals approaching, Melbourne’s top players, including Papenhuyzen, who missed the last regular season match due to a leg injury, are set to return to the field. Grant is particularly keen to witness how halfback Jahrome Hughes performs. Hughes has emerged as a favorite for the Dally M medal, an accolade Grant believes is well-deserved. “He’s been the most influential and probably the best player in the competition consistently over the course of the season,” Grant said. Despite the accolades, he highlighted how Hughes remains focused on team success rather than individual recognition.
Looking Ahead
As the Storm gears up for their finals campaign, Grant’s leadership will be pivotal in navigating the pressures of postseason play. The team’s collective experience, combined with the infusion of talent from younger players, positions Melbourne as a formidable contender. Grant’s commitment to fostering a good atmosphere and ensuring a successful stint in the finals reflects his deep understanding of the club’s demands and expectations.
The game against Cronulla is really important for the Storm as they try to move forward in the finals. It’s also a great chance for Grant to make his mark in the team’s history. The Storm wants to play well and show everyone they can win the championship again, just like the great teams that came before them.
