The return of Brisbane prop Payne Haas from a skin infection has come at just the right time in the wake of young gun Xavier Willison's broken arm.
Haas was on a drip in hospital last Thursday night to treat a cut on his leg that got infected and missed the 60-14 win over South Sydney but he's back in business for the away showdown with high-flying Melbourne.
Thursday night's clash is a test of sixth-placed Brisbane's premiership credentials as they target a spot in the top four.
Haas's return will be crucial at AAMI Park on a night when the Storm get rampaging prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona back from a two-game suspension.
"He will be right to go," Broncos prop Corey Jensen said of Haas.
"It was a good chance to have a re-set. He's had a few bumps and bruises along the way but he doesn't like missing games.
"He's probably the best front-rower in the game so to have him mentally and physically fresh is going to be a huge against Melbourne for us."
Brisbane's front-row stocks are skinny. Ben Te Kura (foot) is also out of action while veteran Martin Taupau was released by the club mid-season.
The Broncos are also without back-rower Brendan Piakura (concussion) against the Storm due to his 11-day stand down.
Jensen said the Broncos "got a lot of things right" against the Rabbitohs, including being patient and getting in the grind early before putting the foot down in attack.
They will likely need even more against the Storm at a venue where the Broncos have not won since 2016.
"We are under no illusion they are a great side and even better at home so it will be a good test for us and a nice gauge of where we are at," Jensen said.
Joe Gould - AAP
