Daly Cherry-Evans leads Roosters charge for NRL second spot vs Storm

Daly Cherry-Evans will lead Sydney Roosters into battle against Melbourne Storm on Thursday night, 18 June 2026, with a top-two finish on the line at Allianz Stadium.

A win for the Roosters would move them above New Zealand Warriors into second place on the NRL ladder after 14 rounds of the 2026 regular season.

What’s at stake for Daly Cherry-Evans and the Roosters?

Cherry-Evans, 35, is back in the No.7 jersey after missing time earlier in the campaign. The Roosters sit third on 26 points, three clear of fourth-placed Storm, who have struggled for consistency this season.

James Tedesco remains sidelined with a head knock, but the Roosters have enough firepower to cover his absence. Cherry-Evans’ leadership and experience will be vital as the club eyes a top-two finish.

How will Melbourne Storm line up without key men?

Storm are missing five players, including Jahrome Hughes and Cameron Munster, both ruled out by injury. That leaves Melbourne with a thinner bench for the clash.

Harry Grant returns at hooker, but the absence of Munster-one of the NRL’s most damaging playmakers-leaves Storm short on creativity. Melbourne have managed just six wins from 13 games so far.

Where and when can fans watch the clash?

The match kicks off at 8:05pm AEST at Allianz Stadium. UK viewers can tune into Sky Sports, while Australian fans watch on Channel 9 or stream via 9Now. US coverage is patchy, with some matches on Fox Sports platforms.

Cherry-Evans’ side will need to start fast if they’re to edge Storm and keep the pressure on premiers Brisbane Broncos.

What’s the prediction for Cherry-Evans’ Roosters?

The Roosters have won three more games than Storm this season and have the motivation of a top-two finish. Without Tedesco, they’ll rely on depth and intensity early.

Back the hosts to take the points in what’s expected to be a tight, high-scoring contest. Cherry-Evans’ side should edge it at home.