NRL
Melbourne Storm have strengthened their forward pack for 2027 with the signing of Parramatta Eels second-rower Kelma Tuilagi on a one-year deal.
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The move represents something of a homecoming for Tuilagi, who came through the Victorian rugby league system and was previously part of Melbourne’s NRL squad before establishing his first-grade career elsewhere.
Tuilagi was a member of the Storm’s 2020 premiership-winning squad but never made his NRL debut for the club, eventually getting his first opportunity at the Wests Tigers the following season.
The powerful forward has since spent time with the Tigers, Manly and Parramatta, building considerable first-grade experience while also representing Samoa internationally.
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Now 27, Tuilagi will return to Melbourne as a far more experienced player than the young prospect who originally departed the club, giving the Storm another proven option on the edge.
His signing comes at an important time for Melbourne as the club prepares for some significant changes to its forward pack heading into 2027.
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Shawn Blore is set to depart the Storm for Brisbane next season, while Eliesa Katoa’s injury struggles have further highlighted the importance of having quality depth available in the second row.
Tuilagi will therefore have an opportunity to push for a regular place in Craig Bellamy’s side rather than simply returning as a depth signing, with his size and athleticism giving Melbourne another different option in the pack.
There is also a strong connection between Tuilagi and Victoria, having played for the Casey Warriors and Victorian Thunderbolts before earning his original opportunity with the Storm.
For Melbourne, the one-year contract represents a relatively low-risk move for an established NRL forward who already understands the club and its system.
Tuilagi will now have an opportunity to return to where his NRL journey began and potentially complete some unfinished business running out in a Storm jersey.
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