SLATER REPLACEMENT BOUNCES BACK FROM BELLAMY BLAST

Melbourne fullback Jahrome Hughes has nothing to fear from Brisbane in the NRL season opener on Thursday night after surviving a Craig Bellamy blast on returning to Storm preseason training underdone. Bellamy wasn’t happy with the condition of the 24-year-old following New Zealand’s tour to England, where he didn’t get a run, and then a holiday with his girlfriend. “I still have nightmares about it,” Hughes said of Bellamy’s feedback. “I remember him calling me in and telling me what he thought. “I didn’t think I was too bad and didn’t realise until I came back and did a test. “I guess I didn’t train as hard as I should have while I was away and I got a bit of a wake-up call from Craig and got myself into gear.” Against the Broncos at AAMI Park, Hughes will wear the No.1 jersey vacated by retired superstar Billy Slater. He played there for six games last season although his off-season form meant he was off the pace, with Scott Drinkwater the frontrunner until he suffered a torn pectoral muscle during their last trial, ruling him out for up to four months. Hughes, who didn’t play in the trials after a minor calf injury, admitted he needed to make the most the opportunity. “Drinky was training the house down so it’s unfortunate he got such a severe injury,” Hughes said. “Seeing how good Drinky was going through the preseason was a wake-up call and that motivated me.” Hughes can also play halfback and spent time there in 2018 before Brodie Croft secured the role for their finals campaign. Hughes hoped to nail down the fullback position but would again provide utility cover if required.