Nathan Cleary is poised to make a significant return to the State of Origin scene as he prepares to don the Westpac NSW Blues jersey for the first time since Game One in 2023. Having missed five matches due to injuries, Cleary is driven to leave his mark and reinforce his legacy within the competitive arena of rugby league.
Despite his impressive track record of playing a pivotal role in three series victories, Cleary’s overall performance in the Origin series has been met with skepticism, as he holds a 50% winning record and has faced defeat in both deciders he has participated in. However, the passage of two years has seen him enhance his experience exponentially, bolstered by two additional premierships he secured with the Penrith Panthers.
Reflecting on his journey, Cleary acknowledged the growth he has undergone, stating, “It feels great to be back. Playing for the Blues has always been a dream of mine, and with the experiences gained in my last two grand finals, I feel equipped to handle the pressure.”
Cleary’s accomplishments are well-recognized by his NSW teammates and coaches, who have confidence in his capabilities, even amid public scrutiny. From leading NSW to a series win at just 20 years old in 2018 to delivering an extraordinary Game Two performance in 2020 that helped keep the series alive, Cleary’s contributions consistently speak for themselves.
NSW captain Isaah Yeo emphasized that while external challenges surrounding Cleary’s performance exist, those within the team view his achievements positively. “The four premierships and his carrying us to the 2023 one were probably a fair frontier in themselves,” Yeo remarked.
As the Blues prep for their clash against the Queensland Maroons, the primary tactical focus will be how Cleary coordinates with five-eighth Mitchell Moses, especially given their shared prominence in their clubs’ attacking frameworks. Adjusting their play style is necessary, as both players are traditionally ball-dominant halves, yet they aim for seamless collaboration to maximize their strengths.
The excitement surrounding this crucial matchup extends beyond strategy; it captures the spirit of rugby league as fans anticipate the resilience and tactical prowess both teams will bring to the field at Suncorp Stadium. Coach Billy Slater of the Queensland side acknowledges Cleary’s pivotal role, stating, “He’s always in the game passing, he’s in the game kicking but more than anything he’s in the game running—that’s what we do need to defend.”
As Cleary takes center stage once again, the challenge of consistently delivering under intense Origin conditions remains. He is aware of the stakes but maintains a team-first mentality. “At the end of the day, I just want to put my best foot forward for the team and ensure we get a win,” he shared.
This narrative around Cleary not only highlights individual talent but also emphasizes the broader team dynamics that will be crucial for NSW’s success in reclaiming the State of Origin shield. Fans are filled with hope as they cheer for a transformative performance that may indeed rewrite the discourse around Cleary’s career in the Origin arena.
Leave a comment