Bai lauds Olam’s form, consistency at Storm

By PARKER TAMBUA
MELBOURNE and Papua New Guinea Kumuls legend Marcus Bai, pictured, handed, has hailed the form and consistency of centre Justin Olam at National Rugby League ladder leaders Storm.
The 1999 NRL premiership winner says he is impressed with what 25-year-old has achieved and believes the centre position is Olam’s to lose.
With four rounds remaining in the regular season, the Craig Bellamy-coached Storm — who are six points ahead of the second-placed Sydney Roosters — are poised to secure the minor premiership.
“Melbourne Storm are the benchmark of rugby league in this era, they have been the dominant force over the last 15 years,” Bai said.
“For Justin to make it up to that level and play seven consecutive games, that’s massive. That’s not a fluke, he has worked hard for it and has earned his right to be in the starting side.
“He performs strongly and follow the systems Melbourne have. That’s all Bellamy can ask of him.
“It is going to be very hard for other players in the squad vying for the position because Olam runs and tackles hard.
“So long as he is in the defensive and offensive lines that Melbourne ask him to fill, I’m confident he will always be in the team.”
Bai told The National that he was happy that a second Papua New Guinean was wearing the Storm jersey after 15 years.
“Olam and I talked several weeks ago and I told him to maintain in performance. He is going to make mistakes but the important thing is that he keeps going.
“In 2016, two clubs — Canberra Raiders and Melbourne — wanted to signed Justin but (former Kumul) John Wilshere, Michael Marum and I forced him to join the Storm because I knew when he gets into their system and starts playing first grade, it will be good for the Kumuls.
“Now that he is doing well, his story will inspire our local boys.”