Doubt remains over Cleary’s fitness
Panthers players were tightlipped as to whether superstar halfback Nathan Cleary would return from a hamstring injury this week as the defending premiers look to avenge last year’s loss to the Wests Tigers when they were “ambushed” in Bathurst.
Cleary hasn’t played since he limped off late in the grand final rematch against the Broncos.
He had played his best game of the season in the first half before injuring a hamstring for the second year in a row.
The Panthers beat the Roosters without him but were outplayed by the Sea Eagles a fortnight ago when Cleary’s halves partner Jarome Luai failed to finish the game. Luai is expected to be fine to play on Saturday.
Cleary was tipped to return after the bye but there have been reports he has had a setback in his recovery.
“I’m not sure if it was last week or how long ago it was but there a little, tiny setback,” Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards said.
“I’m not sure where that sits in terms of his return to play. He’s not one to sit out an extra week if he’s ready to go. In saying that, hammies are tricky.
“Our medical staff are sec
ond to none and he’s well known to be as diligent as anyone in terms of his rehab.”
The Panthers could get Scott Sorensen back for the game in Bathurst, where they were stunned by a Tigers side last year that was winless in the opening eight rounds before it pulled off the upset of 2023 in driving rain.
Luke Brooks dominated with his left boot and Jahream
Bula starred out the back. While Brooks is no longer at the club, the Tigers have already beaten Cronulla and Parramatta this year.
“They ambushed us and they got us,” said Izack Tago, who missed the game last year.
“We took a lot from that and you could see it in the few games after that. We learnt a lesson from that game.
“They are going really well and have a lot of potential.”
Tago has had a strong start to the season. He has been carving up on the right edge and was rewarded with a contract extension but teammate Sunia Turuva has attracted interest from the Dragons.