Munster returns as sold-out Perth clash offers glimpse into Bears era

Perth's final standalone taste of NRL before the arrival of the Bears has already captured the imagination of rugby league fans, with Saturday night's sold-out clash between Melbourne and Manly providing a glimpse into the competition's future in Western Australia.

More than 20,000 fans are expected to pack HBF Park, the future home of the Bears, as excitement continues to build ahead of the club's entry into the NRL next season.

From 2027, trips west will become a regular part of the NRL calendar, and Storm players are embracing the chance to experience what rugby league in Perth could soon look like.

"It's all new territory for us," Storm forward Josh King said. 

"There's a bit of excitement in the group.

"It'll become the norm next year when Perth comes into the competition, so it'll be good to get over there, play in front of a different crowd and at a different stadium."

Saturday's match will also give departing Storm pair Nick Meaney and Tyran Wishart an early taste of the city they'll soon call home after signing with the Bears.

Storm coach Craig Bellamy admitted losing the experienced duo would hurt but believes they're joining the right club under Mal Meninga.

"They're very excited about going over there," Bellamy said.

"We probably didn't like the decision because they're good players for us, but they've still got a job to do here.

"I've worked with Mal and played with Mal. I know the amount of work he'll put into the coaching.

"It's important that all teams have success. Not everyone can win the competition, but expansion is a great thing for our game."

Few coaches understand expansion clubs better than Bellamy.

Taking over Melbourne just a few years after the Storm entered the competition, he transformed the club into one of the NRL's great success stories, winning three premierships and building a powerhouse in an AFL-dominated city.

He believes Perth has the potential to follow a similar path.

"You want to be successful, everyone wants to be successful," Bellamy said.

"But it comes back to how hard you're willing to work to be successful.

"The only little concern for me is making sure we've got enough players to keep the competition strong.

"We need to keep investing in junior rugby league and make sure we've got enough kids coming through."

Bellamy also provided an update on his own coaching future, confirming he'll remain at the Storm next season.

"I'll be coaching next year," he said.

"But I think that might be the end."