NRL news: Melbourne Storm's Brodie Croft gets nod to replace Cooper Cronk
Brodie Croft will have the first chance to secure the Melbourne Storm halfback jersey left vacant through Cooper Cronk's departure after being named to start in their World Club Challenge clash with Leeds on Friday night.
Croft got the nod ahead of Ryley Jacks and will partner Cameron Munster in a new-look halves combination when the NRL champions host the Super League title-holders.
Veterans Cameron Smith and Billy Slater have also been included in a strong starting line-up for the AAMI Park while Ryan Hoffman, who rejoined the Storm this season, will line up for his fifth WCC.
Brodie Croft will start at halfback in the World Club Challenge. (AAP)
The team includes 13 players from last year's premiership team, with Cronk (Sydney Roosters), Jordan McLean (North Queensland) and Tohu Harris (New Zealand Warriors) the notable absentees.
Big Bulldogs recruit Sam Kasiano wasn't considered due to an ankle injury.
Storm: Billy Slater, Suliasi Vunivalu, Will Chambers, Curtis Scott, Josh Addo-Carr, Cameron Munster, Brodie Croft, Jesse Bromwich, Cameron Smith (c), Tim Glasby, Felise Kaufusi, Ryan Hoffman, Dale Finucane, Brandon Smith, Nelson Asofa-Solomona, Kenny Bromwich, Christian Welch, Joe Stimson, Young Tonumaipea, Tui Kamikamica, Ryley Jacks.
