One of the country's leading authorities on brain injuries has warned the NRL missed an opportunity to show how serious it is about tackling concussion when Melbourne lock Dale Finucane's removal from the field was delayed late in the grand final.

Melbourne Storm enjoyed plenty of success in 2016, despite their grand final loss, with contributions from the second tier of players the major step forward.

The man who made the initial contact on Andrew Fifita during his match-winning try was less than a minute earlier supposed to leave the field for a concussion test. And now the NRL is likely to probe the Melbourne Storm.

"Be willing to be uncomfortable. Be comfortable being uncomfortable. It may get tough, but it's a small price to pay for living a dream."

If Billy Slater's playing future was decided by his heart then he would be playing on in 2017.

Thirteen years after winning his first grand final, Luke Lewis won a second and has a Clive Churchill medal to go with it after the Sharks broke their premiership duck at the 50th time of trying.

When Melbourne Storm star Jesse Bromwich thinks of the 2016 Grand Final he describes it as "shattering".

Melbourne Storm fought back from 8-0 down, held a lead but couldn't stop the Sharks.

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy says nothing will stop him feeling proud of his side's evolution in 2016 despite their grand final loss.

Michael Ennis remained a pest to the very end.

Michael Ennis said he thought the dream was over. With just over 15 minutes to play, after a half of Cronulla pure domination, he saw Melbourne's Will Chambers power his way over to put the Storm in the driver's seat.

Who starred and who stumbled for the Storm in the grand final.

Forever is over. Dust off the trophy cabinet. Turn off the porch lights. Finally, Cronulla have done it. After 49 years of misery, misfortune and missed opportunities, the Sharks have managed what no team to wear the sky blue before them had done.

"It's ours to lose," said five-eighth James Maloney at halftime. And then they almost did.

Forever is over. Dust off the trophy cabinet. Turn on the porch lights. Finally, Cronulla have done it.

New Wallabies prospect Marika Koroibete could start his rugby union career with a suspension.

The day after being forced to endure endless replays of the tackle that paralysed Alex McKinnon, Jordan McLean fell further into the abyss when his brother was sent to prison for a one-punch attack.

Craig Bellamy always says a team's final game encapsulates their year. His Storm hope their successful season is reflected in their grand final performance.

It's gameday! The important news you need to know for the biggest day in the NRL's calendar. What are the Storm and Sharks listening to? What's the view from our unnamed Melbourne expert? Where is Harold Holt?