Storm rookie taken from field in ambulance after 'frightening' collision in pre-season match

Storm rookie Hugo Peel was taken from the field in an ambulance after a terrifying collision during Melbourne's NRL pre-season clash with North Queensland on Sunday.

But Melbourne said shortly after that Peel was doing well and indicated the club was being "precautionary".

Peel, a young fullback or winger, and teammate Coby Williamson were both running to retrieve a Cowboys kick when they crashed into each other late in the match, which was ultimately won by North Queensland 36-24 at Melbourne's Casey Fields.

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The ball spilled to ground as Peel and Williamson collided, before the latter scooped up the footy and ran the ball back, unaware his teammate was lying motionless on the turf.

Play stopped almost immediately for Peel to receive medical assistance and he was taken away in an ambulance in scenes described by Fox League sideline reporter Eloise Sohier as "frightening".

"Hugo Peel is responsive and talking," the Storm posted to social media shortly after.

"He is being taken for further examination as a precautionary measure.

"We will keep you updated, Storm fam.

"Wishing Hugo a speedy recovery."

It's unclear whether Tom Duffy or Jake Clifford will don the Cowboys' No.7 jumper in round one, but Duffy wore the jersey on Sunday and showed promise.

"The opportunities ... 'Duff' had, he's really taken it with both hands and been so composed in that position, which is what you need from your halfback," said Tom Dearden, Duffy's halves partner on Sunday.

"I thought he had a great game and kicked really well today."

Clifford has been dealing with a hernia that required surgery, but the playmaker is expected to be available for round one.

Scott Drinkwater starred at fullback for the Cowboys in Sunday's trial, crossing for two tries, setting up another and generally proving a major threat in attack.

Highly rated Storm recruit Stefano Utoikamanu had an impressive game at prop for his new club, piling up 103 run metres, including 39 post-contact, bursting through six tackles, making 25 tackles and scoring a try.

Meanwhile, Melbourne's Cameron Munster and Nick Meaney had their first hit-outs of the season after undergoing hip surgery.

North Queensland will face Manly in Brookvale in round one, while Melbourne will host Parramatta at AAMI Park.