ESPN CONFIRMED: In a stunning turn of events that has left fans across the desert buzzing with emotion,Penrith Panthers Head Coach Ivan Cleary has officially announced that star Scrum half Nathan Cleary will be the new….see more

In a stunning turn of events that has left fans across the rugby league world buzzing with emotion, Penrith Panthers head coach Ivan Cleary has officially announced that star scrum-half Nathan Cleary will be the new captain of the Panthers heading into the 2026 NRL season.

 

The announcement, made during a packed press conference at BlueBet Stadium this morning, marks a new era for the reigning NRL powerhouse. Cleary, 27, takes over the leadership reins following the departure of long-time captain Isaah Yeo, who recently confirmed he would be stepping down to focus on his personal health and longevity in the sport.

 

> “Nathan has been a leader in every sense of the word — on and off the field,” Ivan Cleary told reporters. “He’s earned the respect of his teammates through his work ethic, humility, and competitiveness. This is a natural progression for him and for the team.”

 

 

 

Nathan Cleary, already considered one of the greatest playmakers in modern NRL history, said the captaincy was “a huge honor and responsibility” — one he does not take lightly.

 

> “It’s pretty special,” Cleary said. “This club means everything to me. I’ve grown up here, played my whole career here, and to now lead these boys out every week is something I’ll cherish. I just want to continue what we’ve built — keep our standards high and keep chasing greatness.”

 

 

 

Cleary has been instrumental in Penrith’s unprecedented success over the past few years, guiding the team to multiple premierships and establishing himself as one of the most influential players of his generation.

 

Yeo, who will continue to play a vital role within the squad, praised the decision:

 

> “There’s no better person for the job. Nath leads by example. He’s the heartbeat of this club,” Yeo said.

 

 

 

Fans across the NRL have reacted passionately on social media, with many celebrating the decision as “the perfect fit” for a team that continues to define excellence in modern rugby league.

 

As the Panthers prepare for another title defense, one thing is clear — the Cleary family dynasty in Penrith

just got even stronger.