Nathan Cleary, the young star halfback for the Penrith Panthers is taking the sports world by storm. His recent performances have renewed speculation that he could make the switch from rugby league to rugby union. Unfortunately, this baseless rumor has gained a lot of momentum over the past two months. It was further stoked by former rugby player Tim Horan who claimed that Cleary was “very, very interested in coming to rugby.”
European clubs have increased their activity in convincing Cleary to take the plunge. This increase is especially linked to his contrasting relationship dynamic with his romantic partner, Mary Fowler. Fowler dazzles as a breakout star for the Matildas. She currently competes for the number one-ranked team in the world, Manchester City, deepening Cleary’s move on the international women’s sports stage.
Joe Schmidt, the Wallabies coach, has added to the speculation on Cleary’s future. He signalled that he would start to build his squad slowly as Australia’s teams wrap up their Super Rugby Pacific commitments. The first Wallabies squad should be picked during the grand final week next month. This draft would only occur in years where no Australian side is in the running.
Horan expressed optimism about Cleary’s future in rugby, stating, “You might not have to wait too long for Nathan Cleary to be playing rugby.” This quote seems to speak to the building excitement among fans and pundits alike about the prospect of Cleary moving to rugby union.
Cleary’s interest definitely isn’t a recent development. Players like Sean Fitzpatrick and Taniela Tupou have made the leap from league to union successfully in the past. Such transitions are often met with skepticism when it comes to their ability to adapt and thrive in a new sport.
Tate McDermott recently rejected the sabbatical provision included in his contract with the Queensland Reds. His plate is indeed full with his existing commitments. McDermott affirmed his commitment to Queensland by stating, “There was some interest in Europe, but I love playing for Queensland.” His decision to stay with the Reds suggests that he values continuity as he prepares for future Test matches alongside emerging talents like Tom Lynagh, who is considered a potential Test No.10 for the Reds.
Schmidt welcomed McDermott’s impact on the Reds and Wallabies. He remarked, “He’s an integral part, a really important cog in the wheel for the Reds and the Wallabies, and that stability allows him to continue combinations.”
As the debate over Cleary’s future continues, Schmidt’s method of squad selection will make for fascinating viewing. He stated, “If Tate went on a sabbatical, we weren’t letting him go for long anyway … but to have him continuously is a huge advantage.” This further underscores Schmidt’s strategy of keeping the core group very strong, while reloading and adding fresh talent such as Cleary.
