Cleary set for finals return as Panthers breathe sigh of relief

Halfback Nathan Cleary of the Penrith Panthers is set to make a comeback just in time for the NRL finals, as scans have shown that his shoulder injury does not require surgery.

During Thursday’s loss against the Melbourne Storm, Cleary experienced a reoccurrence of shoulder instability, causing concerns about his absence.

However, on Friday, the club confirmed that the injury can be managed without the need for surgery.

In their statement, the Panthers mentioned that Nathan will not undergo surgery, and they are aiming to have him for the NRL finals.

The Panthers are optimistic about his recovery in time for the finals and have been focusing on strengthening his shoulder while he recuperates from a hamstring injury this season.

Despite Nathan’s absence, the Panthers maintain optimism about their performance in the finals.

They have demonstrated success in seven out of 11 games played without him this NRL season.

Isaah Yeo, co-captain of the team, expressed confidence, in playing without Cleary.

“We believe in our abilities,” Yeo remarked.

The Panthers were seen as contenders for their fourth consecutive premiership before Thursday’s match.

Now the betting markets are in turmoil after the Storms close 24–22 win with the Penrith Panthers moving out from $2.60 to $3.40 tied along the Storm with the top NRL bookmakers.

With the finals drawing near, everyone is watching closely to see how Cleary recovers and how the Panthers adjust without him.

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