Ativalu Lisati out of Storm clash, Sharpe likely to miss Knights first home game

The Melbourne Storm have been dealt a fresh setback on the eve of their blockbuster grand final rematch, with back-rower Ativalu Lisati ruled out for up to a month after suffering a calf strain at training.

Lisati had started the season in the No.12 jersey across the opening two rounds and had quickly established himself as part of Melbourne’s forward rotation, making his absence a notable blow to their early-season depth.

The club confirmed the change late on Thursday, with Alec MacDonald set to return from concussion and slot straight into the starting side in the back row.

"The starting team features one change from Tuesday’s team announcement, with Alec MacDonald making his return from concussion to start at second-row in place of Ativalu Lisati," a Storm statement read.

"Lisati sustained a calf strain during training this week and is expected to be sidelined for around a month.

"Elsewhere, the interchange bench includes a return for Trent Loiero following his two-game suspension, alongside a potential Storm debut for playmaker Trent Toelau.

Lisati, 25, made his NRL debut late in the 2024 season and went on to feature 14 times last year, steadily building a reputation as a reliable and versatile forward option.

Fletcher Sharpe in doubt

Newcastle's injury crisis in the halves appears it may continue to spiral with Fletcher Sharpe unable to train Wednesday, Code Sports reported.

Sharpe was expected to return in Round 3 after suffering a PCL injury in the Knights Round 1 clash in Las Vegas.

It is understood Newcastle are not keen to risk Sharpe, particularly with its first string halves paring worth $2.7m sidelined for a number of weeks.

Tyson Gamble shapes as the obvious replacement for the Knights first home game of the season.