The count down begins for the first-ever NRL-sanctioned rugby league match in Fiji where the Melbourne Storm will meet with New Castle Knights.

The match will be played this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka, which will also be the Storm’s second trial in preparation for the 2024 season.

Melbourne Storm are expected to arrive in the country tonight.

They will spend the week connecting with the local Fijian community engaging with schools and local rugby league clubs to provide inspiration and a pathway to those wanting to play in the NRL.

The Club will also bring 160 members of the Storm Executive Club as part of their annual business networking initiative.

Storm will also wear a specially designed training t-shirt during the week and the match ball will carry traditional Fiji artwork to recognise the significance of the match.

Storm plays the New Castle Knights in a pre-season match at Churchill Park in Lautoka on Saturday at 2:45pm.