Nathan Cleary Hints at Potential Rugby Switch Amid NRL Speculation

Nathan Cleary’s Future: Rugby League Focus, Open Mind on Code Switch
By Andrew Prentice for Daily Mail Australia
Published: 00:50 BST, 14 June 2025 | Updated: 00:50 BST, 14 June 2025

[IMAGE: Nathan Cleary in NSW Blues training gear, captioned "Focused on Origin: Cleary prepares for Game II in Perth."]

Penrith Panthers and NSW Blues superstar Nathan Cleary has sparked speculation about his long-term future, admitting he retains an “open mind” about a potential switch to rugby union. However, the playmaker emphasized his immediate focus remains on leading the Blues to victory in State of Origin and achieving further milestones in the NRL.

Current Focus: Dominating Rugby League

At 27, Cleary is already a four-time premiership winner and one of rugby league’s most decorated players. Despite rumors linking him to rugby union, he clarified his priorities from the Blues’ camp in the Blue Mountains:

“I want to squeeze the most out of my rugby league potential. It’s been my passion for so long, and I’m playing my best footy now. I don’t want to waste that.”

Cleary’s contract with the Panthers runs through 2027, and he remains committed to the club amid a challenging NRL season:

“Going back to Penrith, the way we started the year… that’s motivation. You can’t take winning for granted.”

[IMAGE: Cleary with girlfriend Mary Fowler, captioned "Balancing ambitions: Cleary and Fowler navigate careers across continents."]

Openness to Change

While ruling out an immediate code switch, Cleary acknowledged the possibility down the track. His comments follow claims by Wallabies legend Tim Horan that he’s “quite keen” on rugby union, while Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt hinted he may “want to spread his wings.”

The speculation is fueled partly by Cleary’s relationship with Matildas striker Mary Fowler, who plays for Manchester City in England. A move abroad could align their careers, but Cleary stressed:

“I’ve got a pretty open mind… potentially down the track, but not at the moment.”

Origin Redemption with Luai

All eyes are now on Cleary’s pivotal role in State of Origin Game II in Perth (June 18). The Blues must win to keep the series alive after a shock Game I loss. Cleary will reunite with former Panthers teammate Jarome Luai, replacing injured Eels captain Mitch Moses.

NRL legend Peter Sterling backed the halves pairing:

“Luai doesn’t look out of place in Origin. He’s got a great relationship with Cleary, and we know he’ll deliver.”

[IMAGE: Cleary and Luai celebrating a Panthers win, captioned "Dynamic duo: Cleary and Luai reunite for NSW in Origin II."]

The Road Ahead

Cleary’s legacy in rugby league seems far from complete. With Origin glory and a fifth Panthers premiership in his sights, his “open mind” hints at a future crossroads—but for now, the NRL’s brightest star is firmly locked in on the challenges ahead.

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