Melbourne Storm star Christian Welch ready to retire after latest injury blow
Melbourne have had furtive talks with the NRL over the future of Christian Welch as a back problem and another concussion threaten to force the former Origin forward into early retirement.
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Melbourne have had furtive talks with the NRL over the future of Christian Welch as a back problem and another concussion threaten to force the former Queensland State of Origin forward into early retirement.
Welch has at least one year remaining on his contract with the Storm – he has a clause in his deal which automatically extends his contract by a season if he plays at least 18 games or wins an Origin recall.
However, it is understood he is leaning towards retirement after a career in which he played 163 games for the Storm, was made a life member of the club and appeared in six games for Queensland.
The 30-year-old made 20 appearances for the club last season including the grand final loss to the Panthers but battled with a back problem for much of the year.
He has been a noticeable absentee at training in recent weeks after suffering a concussion but it is understood the back problem has also played on his mind and he is expected to draw the curtain on his career in coming days.
Foxsports first reported early on Tuesday that Welch’s career was in doubt and this masthead understands that an announcement is imminent.
His absence will leave a gaping hole at the Storm, although the arrival of Stefano Utoikamanu in the off-season has eased some of concerns around Melbourne’s forward pack.
Nevertheless, the Storm will start the season without Nelson Asofa-Solomona – he has one more game to serve of a suspension dating back to last season – and now Welch.
Even they are granted dispensation by the NRL, the Storm are unlikely to chase a big name for this season but it could ease some of the pressure heading into 2026 and help them retain the likes of Josh King and Tui Kamikamica.
The club also has an option for Tyson Wishart, who is coming off a season in which he pressed for State of Origin selection.
Welch’s departure could also help the Storm as they fight to keep a handful of big names who are off contract at the end of 2026, meaning they can begin negotiations with rival clubs on November 1.
The list is headlined by halfback Jahrome Hughes and captain Harry Grant. Wingers Will Warbrick and Xavier Coates are also able to negotiate with rival clubs on November 1.
Hughes will be Melbourne’s biggest call given he is likely to receive massive interest on the open market should he fail to agree a new deal by the start of November.
The Storm have an insurance policy in the shape of Jonah Pezet, who is signed until the end of 229 but expected to explore his options should Hughes agree a new deal. Welch’s expected retirement has the potential to free up cash this season and give the Storm more clarity around their salary cap position in 2026.
Originally published as Melbourne Storm star Christian Welch ready to retire after latest injury blow
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