Queensland Country Bank Stadium will play host to Saturday's Round 18 NRL game between North Queensland Cowboys and Melbourne Storm. The game kicks off at 7:35 pm with Melbourne Storm heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the North Queensland Cowboys vs. Melbourne Storm game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Saturday July 5, 2025 at 7:35 pm

Where: Queensland Country Bank Stadium

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

North Queensland Cowboys vs Melbourne Storm Odds

North Queensland Cowboys vs Melbourne Storm Preview

North Queensland will be aiming for back-to-back victories for the first time since Round 8 when they host Melbourne in another Origin-depleted showdown on Saturday night. The Cowboys snapped a tough losing streak with a 30-24 triumph over the Titans, but now face a far tougher challenge in a red-hot Storm side chasing their fifth consecutive win.

Both clubs will be without several key players due to State of Origin duties, including Tom Dearden, Harry Grant, and Cameron Munster. North Queensland is further weakened by the absence of Reece Robson and Jeremiah Nanai. For Melbourne, the steady hand of Jahrome Hughes remains pivotal, as he continues to steer the NRL’s most potent attack alongside a revitalised Ryan Papenhuyzen.

Recent history favours the Cowboys in Townsville, where they’ve claimed three straight wins over the Storm, each built on sharp attacking performances. However, with the league’s second-worst defensive record, shutting down Melbourne’s slick offensive unit looms as a major task.

Given the attacking firepower on both sides and the reshuffled line-ups, another high-scoring affair appears to be on the cards.