Melbourne fast-tracks Dolphins signing as forward crisis deepens, immediate release granted

Dolphins forward Oryn Keeley has been granted an immediate release to join the Melbourne Storm just a day before the June 30 transfer deadline.

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The moves brings forward Keeley’s original two-year Storm deal that was due to kick in from next season.

His arrival in Melbourne comes at a crucial time for the Storm given the potentially season-ending syndesmosis injury suffered by second rowerAtivalu Lisati in the Round 17 loss to the Sea Eagles on Saturday night and the ongoing absences of Eli Katoa and Tui Kamikamica.

Both the Storm and Dolphins confirmed the move on Monday.

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Storm head of football Frank Ponissi said the club was thrilled to welcome Keeley, 23, to Melbourne ahead of schedule.

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“We’re delighted to have Oryn joining our Club following our Round 18 bye,” Ponissi said.

“He’s a quality young player and having him arrive earlier than expected is a great outcome for both the club and Oryn, we thank the Dolphins for working with us to facilitate his early release.”

Already signed with the Storm for the 2027 and 2028 NRL seasons, Keeley will link with Craig Bellamy’s squad ahead of its Round 19 clash with the Titans.

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