Storm will play host to Rhinos

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

The Melbourne Storm will fight for the title of the world’s best rugby league club team when it hosts Leeds Rhinos at AAMI Park early next year.

The NRL premiers and English Super League champions will clash on Friday, February 16. The deal was done with the help of the Victorian Government and an announcement is 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 become the world’s best rugby league team,” Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren said.

The Storm and Rhinos met in the 2013 World Cup Challenge in Leeds, with Melbourne winning 18- 14.

Despite hosting the game, Storm will be up against it given their list of departed players following their grand final win. Cooper Cronk, Tohu Harris, Jordan McLean and Slade Griffin all moved on after the grand final victory against North Queensland.

However, returning club favourite Ryan Hoffman and recruit Sam Kasiano should be available.