Melbourne Storm's Jahrome Hughes ruled out of blockbuster clash with Penrith Panthers

Joshua Mayne

Melbourne Storm's Jahrome Hughes ruled out of blockbuster clash with Penrith Panthers image

Jahrome Hughes will miss tonight's Magic Round clash against the Penrith Panthers with a calf injury.

The Kiwi halfback has been a key player for Craig Bellamy's side this season, featuring in every game as well as scoring seven tries and notching six try assists. 

It is a major blow to the Melbourne Storm, who are also without star fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen and centre Reimis Smith after the pair sustained injuries last week against the Dragons.

The Storm have not revealed the severity of the injury to Hughes, but are optimistic for a quick return.

"We are hoping he will be okay for next week's match against the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville," their statement read.

NRL team lists: Every side's confirmed lineup for round 10

As it stands, 19th man Cooper Johns is set to fill in for Hughes.

Nick Meaney will remain on the wing, with rookie Tyran Wishart to play at fullback.

Marion Seve will make his return to the side in the centres, while Tui Kamikamica has been named among the reserves after being cleared to return. 

Joshua Mayne

Joshua Mayne Photo

Joshua Mayne is a content producer for The Sporting News Australia based in Sydney, Australia. He has previously worked as a newsreader at 2SER and journalist at Ministry of Sport. While Joshua’s main passions are football, rugby league, basketball and F1, he will watch any sport that's on. He is still waiting for Arsenal to win the Premier League again.