WAY TO GO CLEARY! Nathan Cleary Turns Down Wallabies Switch, Commits Future to Penrith Panthers
By Mitchell Grant | Rugby Chronicle | June 14, 2025
In a move that has sent shockwaves through both rugby league and union circles, Penrith Panthers superstar Nathan Cleary has turned down a high-profile approach from Rugby Australia and committed his future to the NRL and his beloved Panthers.
Amid mounting speculation over a potential code switch following the Wallabies’ high-profile recruitment drive, Cleary finally put the rumors to rest in a press conference held this morning at BlueBet Stadium.
“My heart’s with Penrith.”
“It’s flattering, of course,” Cleary said, addressing the gathered media. “Les Kiss is a great coach and the Wallabies are an iconic team. But my heart’s with Penrith. This club has shaped me into the player I am today, and I’m not ready to walk away just yet.”
The comments were met with thunderous applause from teammates and staff who stood at the back of the media room, visibly relieved. Cleary’s decision ends weeks of speculation fueled by reports of a $2.5 million per year offer from Rugby Australia, part of a broader attempt to lure league stars in preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home soil.
But Cleary, who has become synonymous with Penrith’s golden era, said the decision was “about loyalty and unfinished business.”
A Club Icon
Since making his NRL debut in 2016, Cleary has grown into one of the most influential halfbacks of his generation. Still only 27, he has already amassed three premierships, two Clive Churchill Medals, and captained both club and country with maturity well beyond his years.
Under coach Ivan Cleary—his father—the Panthers have become a dynasty, and Nathan has been the engine room.
“You look at what we’ve built here,” he said. “It’s not just about winning. It’s about the connection we have, the values, the grind we’ve all put in together. I couldn’t imagine pulling on another jersey right now.”
The Temptation of Union
Rugby Australia’s bold pursuit of Cleary was spearheaded by director of rugby Les Kiss, who had hoped to build a generational Wallabies side anchored by crossover talent. The strategy has already borne fruit, with several NRL stars expressing interest in union after high-profile switches like Joseph Suaalii’s move to the Waratahs.
“Of course we had conversations,” Cleary admitted. “It would’ve been a challenge, something new. And I have huge respect for the Wallabies and the game of union. But deep down, I knew I wasn’t done here.”
Sources close to Cleary say the playmaker was genuinely intrigued by the offer, especially the chance to represent Australia at the Rugby World Cup. But the weight of his ties to the Panthers, his bond with teammates, and the chance to cement a legacy as one of the greatest in league history ultimately proved more compelling.
Fan and Club Reaction
Panthers fans erupted on social media following the announcement, with hashtags like #ClearyForever and #BleedBlackTeal trending across platforms.
General Manager Matt Cameron was quick to express the club’s gratitude.
“Nathan isn’t just a player—he’s the soul of this team. To have him commit long-term is massive not only for Penrith but for the game as a whole,” Cameron said.
Coach Ivan Cleary, who was visibly emotional during the press conference, praised his son’s integrity.
“I’m proud of Nathan as a player, but more so as a man. He made this decision for all the right reasons. It’s not about money or headlines—it’s about love for the jersey.”
What It Means for the Wallabies
Cleary’s decision is a blow to Rugby Australia’s recruitment ambitions. After a dismal showing in the 2023 World Cup and a recent string of test match losses, the governing body has been aggressive in targeting crossover stars.
While Suaalii and others are still slated to play key roles in 2027, Cleary’s refusal signals that not all league stars are willing to trade loyalty for potential international glory.
Still, Les Kiss remained diplomatic in response.
“Nathan is a world-class athlete, and of course we would’ve loved to have him. But we respect his choice and wish him all the best. We’re focused on building a Wallabies team that’s proud, resilient, and ready for 2027.”
The Bigger Picture
Cleary’s commitment could herald a shift in the ongoing tug-of-war between league and union in Australia. With NRL viewership soaring and expansion on the horizon, the code appears well-positioned to retain its marquee names.
At the same time, the bold moves from Rugby Australia show a willingness to disrupt the status quo—and Cleary’s near-switch proves that even the most entrenched league stars can be tempted.
But for now, Nathan Cleary is a Panther through and through.
As he put it simply: “There’s no better feeling than running out in front of our fans at Penrith, with the boys beside me. That’s where I belong.”
Looking Ahead
Cleary is currently signed with Penrith through the end of the 2027 season, but insiders suggest the club is already working to extend his deal through 2030. If he continues his current form, he could retire as the most decorated Panther of all time.
As for the Wallabies, they’ll have to look elsewhere for their playmaking messiah. But in a curious twist, some analysts argue that Cleary’s snub may galvanize the current union stars, who now know the spotlight won’t be stolen by league imports.
Either way, the sporting world will be watching.
Because when Nathan Cleary speaks, the rugby universe listens.
Mitchell Grant is a senior sports writer and former rugby analyst. Follow him on X @MitchRugbyChron.
