ESPN CONFIRMED: His efforts and dedication have taken him to another position; Penrith head coach Ivan Cleary has promised to make Scrum half Nathan Cleary the new….. see more
ESPN reports that Ivan Cleary, who has guided Penrith to multiple premierships in recent years, made the announcement during a team meeting at the club’s training base earlier this week. The decision, though long anticipated, marks a defining moment for the 27-year-old playmaker—cementing his status not only as the Panthers’ on-field general but also as the spiritual leader of the reigning powerhouse.
> “Nathan’s growth over the past few seasons has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Ivan Cleary told ESPN. “He leads by example, on and off the field. His preparation, his discipline, and his desire to make the team better every single day are what make him the right man to lead this group forward.”
Nathan Cleary, already one of the most decorated players in modern rugby league, has been instrumental in the Panthers’ dominance. His ability to control tempo, execute under pressure, and inspire his teammates has made him one of the NRL’s most influential figures.
> “It’s an honour,” Nathan said following the announcement. “I’ve grown up around this club, and to lead the boys out each week means a lot. We’ve got a great group here, and I just want to continue building on what we’ve achieved.”
This leadership transition also signifies a passing of the torch within the Panthers’ dynasty. As Penrith looks to extend its era of success, the father-son duo of Ivan and Nathan Cleary continues to define one of the most compelling narratives in rugby league history.
With pre-season training already underway, fans can expect a rejuvenated Penrith squad, unified under their new captain and ready to chase yet anothe
r title in 2025.
