Melbourne Storm will be looking to extend their incredible winning record in the opening round when they host the reigning premiers Penrith on home soil.
The Storm haven't lost in Round 1 during Craig Bellamy's two-decades long reign at the club although the three-time premiership winners will pose a serious threat to this record on Friday.
Ryan Papenhuyzen is back after enduring an injury nightmare for the past few years, but Cameron Munster has been ruled out after picking up a groin complaint in the pre-season.
MORE: What position will Melbourne's future star Sua Fa'alogo play this season?
The Panthers lost to Wigan in the World Club Challenge to start their campaign, so will be desperate to get back to winning ways.
In their last five meetings against Melbourne, Penrith have won four times with the Panthers battering the Storm 38-4 in their last meeting, which was a preliminary final last year.
However, AAMI Park has been a graveyard for the Panthers, who have managed to pick up just one win in their last eight visits.
What time is the NRL tonight? Storm vs. Panthers kickoff time
Tonight's game between the Melbourne Storm and Penrith Panthers will kick off at 8.05pm AEDT on Friday, March 8.
The game will be played at AAMI Park in Melbourne.
| City | Sydney/Melbourne | Brisbane | Adelaide | Perth |
| Kickoff time | 8.05pm | 7.05pm | 7.35pm | 5.05pm |
How to watch or live stream Storm vs. Panthers
Friday's game will be broadcast live on Fox League, with coverage due to begin at 7.55pm, following the conclusion of the Warriors and Sharks match.
Additionally, the clash will also be available on free-to-air across the Nine network from 7.30pm, including streaming platform, 9Now.
|
TV channel |
Fox League/Channel 9 |
|
Live stream |
Kayo/9Now |
This match, and every match across the regular season, will be available for live streaming and replay on Kayo Sports.
Storm vs. Panthers betting odds
Per TAB, the Panthers are the $1.55 favourite to win this match, while the Storm are the underdogs at $2.45.
Storm vs. Panthers Round 1 team lists
| Storm team list | Panthers team list |
|
1. Ryan Papenhuyzen 14. Tyran Wishart |
1. Dylan Edwards 14. Tyrone Peachey |
