Unexpected leadership role good fit for Maloney
TWO premierships, a world cup, a State of Origin series win – there aren’t many boxes James Maloney hasn’t ticked in his distinguished career.
But five weeks out from a seventh straight finals campaign, the Penrith veteran is being driven by a new challenge: leading an NRL team to the promised land.
Despite being at the club less than a year, Maloney is their captain after injury forced first- choice skipper Peter Wallace to retire mid- season.
And with the Panthers trying to shake off inconsistent form heading into the finals, it’s a role Maloney has embraced.
“It’s an exciting time for me,” he said. “A leadership role, being captain of a club like this, it’s pretty special. And to take a group of young guys who are so talented and keen, it’s an exciting challenge.”
It’s why the 32- year- old dragged his body on to the field for last week’s comeback win over Manly despite carrying foot, hand and back issues stemming from State of Origin.
“I probably should’ve ( rested) on the weekend but it would’ve been a last- minute sort of thing so it wasn’t ideal,” Maloney said.
“I had some conversations with ( coach Anthony Griffin) about how we’re going now. Hopefully the worst of it is over and we can get on the mend and play some good footy come semis.”