Melbourne Storm have confirmed their February match schedule in preparation for the 2018 season.

It will kick-off with a Friday night blockbuster as the World Club Challenge comes to Melbourne for the first time in its history.

NRL Premiers Melbourne Storm will take on English Super League title holders Leeds Rhinos on February 16 at AAMI Park for the right to be crowned the best rugby league team in the world. Tickets went on sale for Storm and Leeds members on Tuesday.

With the chance to win another piece of silverware right here in their own backyard, Storm will be looking to field their strongest possible side for the showpiece event.

That same weekend, those players not involved in the World Club Challenge will travel to Rotorua on the North island of New Zealand to face the Warriors in a trial match.

Preparations for the 2018 campaign will culminate with the Cameron Smith and Jonathan Thurston Testimonial game at Suncorp Stadium on February 23. This marquee game will be the first Grand Final re-match of the season and will give a chance for rugby league fans to pay tribute to two greats of not only the modern but of all time.

Tickets are already on sale for the Testimonial game.

Storm’s 2018 pre-season fixtures:

World Club Challenge

Friday 16 February 2018

Melbourne Storm v Leeds Rhinos

8pm, AAMI Park

Rotorua Trial game

Saturday 17 February 2018

Melbourne Storm v New Zealand Warriors

1pm (AEDT), Rotorua International Stadium

Cameron Smith & Jonathan Thurston testimonial game

Friday, 23 February 2018

Melbourne Storm v North Queensland Cowboys

Suncorp Stadium