Melbourne set to host club decider

THE World Club Challenge is coming to Melbourne for the first time.

The Storm will fight for the title of the world’s best NRL team when they host Leeds Rhinos at AAMI Park next year.

The NRL premiers and the English Super League champions will clash at AAMI Park on Friday, February 16.

The deal was done with the help of the Victroria Government, with the announcement expected today.

“The World Club Challenge is right at home in the sporting capital. We can’t wait to get behind our Storm and help make them the world’s best rugby league team,” said John Eren, Victorian minister for tourism and major events.

“It’s yet another coup for the sports capital that will bring more visitors to Victoria – boosting businesses and supporting local jobs.”

Storm and Leeds previously met in the 2013 World Cup Challenge in the UK, in which the Storm prevailed.

Despite hosting the game, Storm will be up against it given their list of departed players, with Cooper Cronk, Tohu Harris, Jordan McLean and Slade Griffin have all joining new clubs.