NRL legend Johnathan Thurston has delivered a stern warning to Nathan Cleary, urging caution about his potential return to the field after a recent shoulder injury. The Penrith Panthers provided an optimistic update on Cleary’s condition, confirming that while he dislocated his shoulder during Thursday night’s game against the Melbourne Storm, he won’t need surgery. Cleary had to exit the match in the second half after a hard hit from Storm prop Josh King during Penrith’s narrow 24-22 loss.
After undergoing scans, it was determined that the injury was not as severe as initially feared, and Cleary may only miss two games. This opens the possibility for him to return for the NRL finals, which are just three weeks away. However, the Panthers have indicated they will take a more cautious approach, aiming to have him ready at some point during the finals as they pursue their fourth consecutive NRL title.
Despite Cleary’s immense value to the team, Thurston believes that rushing him back could be detrimental. He pointed out that a shoulder injury makes a player vulnerable, particularly in Cleary’s key position as a halfback. Thurston, a Queensland great, emphasized that rival teams would likely target Cleary if he returns with his shoulder still not fully healed. “Shoulders are difficult to play with when they’re busted … you can’t be playing with a busted shoulder in that position,” Thurston told Nine. He added that opponents would likely send their back rowers and forwards at Cleary to test his shoulder, which is a natural part of the game when you’re the best player on the field.
Cleary has been instrumental in the Panthers’ success since his return from a hamstring injury, securing crucial wins with his exceptional playmaking skills. In recent games, he has single-handedly led the team to victory, including a two-point field goal against the Dolphins and a last-minute kick to win against the Eels. His ability to close out games makes him irreplaceable for the Panthers, especially as they head into the finals.
Given Cleary’s importance, there is speculation that the Panthers may look to a strategy similar to the one used by Cooper Cronk in the 2018 NRL Grand Final. Cronk, who played for the Roosters, famously led his team to victory despite suffering a severe shoulder injury. In that match, Cronk barely ran the ball or made tackles due to a broken scapula, yet his leadership and strategic play were crucial in the Roosters’ 21-6 win over the Storm. His performance is often hailed as one of the greatest “non-performances” in NRL history, where he acted more as an on-field coach, directing plays and guiding his team to victory.
While Cleary’s injury is not as severe as Cronk’s was, the Panthers might consider adopting a similar approach if he returns for the finals. Cleary could potentially play a more strategic role, focusing on directing the game rather than engaging in heavy physical confrontations. This strategy could provide the Panthers with the hope that even with a less-than-fully-fit Cleary, they could still achieve an unprecedented fourth straight premiership.
Meanwhile, in other NRL news, the Hall of Fame ceremony saw former teammates and NRL legends Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk share the stage, a rare sight given the speculated tension between them. Both were inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside other modern-day greats like Billy Slater, Johnathan Thurston, Greg Inglis, Sam Burgess, and Benji Marshall. The event was noteworthy not only for the inductions but also for the appearance of Smith and Cronk together, along with their wives. The two were once close friends and led the Melbourne Storm during one of their most successful eras in the 2000s and 2010s, but their relationship reportedly soured over the years.
As the NRL finals approach, all eyes will be on Nathan Cleary and the Panthers to see how they manage his injury and whether they can continue their dominance in the competition.
