After a horror run of injuries to start the season, the Storm finally have something to smile about.

Classy small forward Lachlan Sharp (hand) will play his first game for the season in the reserves this week against Kyneton, full-back Leigh Prior resumes in the seniors after an overseas holiday and key forward Tom Bartholomew (knee) and midfielder Shaun Everington (ankle) are closing in on full fitness.

In even better news for the Storm, full-forward Sam Mildren (back) returned to training last Thursday night, raising hopes he could return to action.

“Lachlan Sharp should come back through the reserves this week,’’ Storm coach Darryl Wilson said on Tuesday.

“Leigh Prior played in the reserves against Maryborough and should come back into the seniors this week.

“Tom Bartholomew and Shaun Everington will both be back for the Gisborne game after the inter-league break.

“It’s been a long time coming, but we’re starting to get everyone back.”

The absence of Mildren and Bartholomew inside forward 50 has been offset by the form of Stephen Milne.

Everington’s absence through the middle of the ground has been more telling.

“It’s turned out to be a 10-week ankle injury,’’ Wilson said.

 “He nearly would have been better off breaking his ankle.

“Originally, he was told it wasn’t that bad and to keep moving on it, but it’s taken a long time to get right.”

Despite the injury woes, the Storm sit in second place on the ladder with a 4-1 record.

“We’re very happy with where we’re at,’’ Wilson said.

“Sandhurst smashed us and they’ve gone on to smash a couple of other teams as well. We think we’re moving in the right direction.”

Speedy midfielder Vin Flood missed last Sunday’s win over Maryborough because of a hip injury.

“We’re not sure if Vin will play against Kyneton... we won't be taking any risks,’’ Wilson said.

With the Bendigo Gold not playing in the VFL this weekend, highly-rated midfielder Sam Heavyside looks set to play for the Storm against Kyneton.