Storm see Olam as potential leader

By PARKER TAMBUA
PAPUA New Guinea Kumuls centre and 63-game veteran Justin Olam is developing into a potential leader at the Melbourne Storm, according to coach Craig Bellamy.
Storm general manager Frank Ponissi told The National yesterday that serial winner Bellamy was impressed with the 28-year-old’s development into one of the game’s most elite centres.
He said the Chimbu native and fellow Papua New Guinean Xavier Coates were presenting a strong case for the left-edge combination ahead of the new National Rugby League season.
Ponissi said Bellamy was trialing Coates alongside 2021 Dally M Centre of the Year Olam following the departure of winger Josh Addo-Carr to the Canterbury Bulldogs.
“Xavier and Justin are having outstanding pre-seasons and we are extremely happy with both players,” he said. “Xavier has fitted in really well after arriving at the club (from the Brisbane Broncos) at the end of last season whilst Justin is developing into a potential leader in the side.
“The coach (Bellamy) sees it that way.
“Bellamy is trying a few combinations at training and the Olam-Coates combination is one of them.”
Olam, who has so far scored 30 tries, is used to playing alongside former teammate Addo-Carr.
The New South Welshman’s departure has seen Bellamy trial potential wingers to partner the Gon villager on the left edge and countryman Coates appears to be doing his chances no harm.
Meanwhile, Ponissi said Olam’s contract at the Storm was still active until the end of 2023 season.