The Penrith Panthers have received a major boost ahead of their Round 17 showdown with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, with club officials confident that star halfback Nathan Cleary will be fit to return from a groin injury.
Cleary, who sustained the injury during training earlier this month, has been under close observation by the club’s medical staff. Although he was ruled out of last weekend’s State of Origin match for New South Wales, signs are positive that he will be available for selection in next week’s NRL clash.
“He’s progressing well and responding positively to treatment,” a Panthers spokesperson said on Wednesday. “We’re hopeful he’ll be ready to take the field in Round 17, but we’ll make a final call closer to game day.”
Cleary’s return would be timely for the reigning premiers, who have managed to stay competitive despite injuries to key players during the Origin period. The Panthers currently sit inside the top four on the NRL ladder, and a win over the Bulldogs would further solidify their finals hopes.
Fans will be watching closely as the team prepares for the clash, with Cleary’s presence potentially swinging the momentum in Penrith’s favour.
The Panthers are set to announce their final team list early next week.
