Penrith Panthers star Nathan Cleary underwent a second surgery last week to address a compound fracture in his right foot, an injury sustained during the preliminary final against the Newcastle Knights. Cleary was seen leaving Royal North Shore Hospital on Sunday afternoon in a wheelchair, both legs encased in knee-high plaster as part of his recovery process.
The 28-year-old halfback initially required emergency surgery a week earlier after suffering a compound fracture to his tibia and fibula following a hip-drop tackle by Newcastle’s Phoenix Crossland. The injury, which broke through the skin and caused significant blood loss, was described as severe, likened to a "bullet wound." Cleary was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday before undergoing the follow-up procedure over the weekend.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Cleary remained engaged with the rugby league community, sharing a hospital bed photo on Saturday and watching the Prime Minister’s XIII matches against Papua New Guinea, where the men’s and women’s teams recorded decisive victories of 60-10 and 66-6 respectively.
Panthers Group CEO Andrew Hill conveyed cautious optimism about Cleary’s recovery timeline, stating that the initial surgery had gone well. Speaking on radio station 2GB, Hill indicated that the medical team was pleased with the progress and expected Cleary to return to play sometime between the 2027 season opener and round four. “It’s as good news as we could have hoped for a terrible, terrible injury,” Hill said.
Cleary was honored with the Dally M Medal on the same night he was released from hospital, receiving the award’s highest distinction from home. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to his family and partner, highlighting the support he has relied on throughout his career and injury recovery. “They’ve sacrificed so much and put so much time and effort into me growing up... I also want to say a big thanks to my partner. It’s tough doing the long distance, but she always makes me feel supported and loved,” Cleary remarked.
Alongside Cleary, other members of the Panthers squad face injury setbacks. Co-captain Isaiah Yeo is expected to undergo surgery for a pectoral injury, while fullback Dylan Edwards suffered a posterior cruciate ligament rupture during the preliminary final. Additionally, young playmaker Blaize Talagi will be sidelined for an extended period due to a ruptured Achilles tendon.
The Panthers’ injury list underscores the physical toll the team has endured this season, with key players entering the off-season focused on rehabilitation and recovery ahead of the next campaign.