LIVE NRL: Penrith forced into late change for blockbuster finals clash with Roosters
Penrith Panthers star Nathan Cleary faces a potential suspension after being sin-binned for a dangerous tackle during a qualifying final win against the Sydney Roosters. The team is now managing his injury concerns while preparing for the next stage of the NRL finals.
Why it matters
The potential loss of a star player like Cleary significantly impacts the competitive landscape of the NRL finals series.
NRL NRL-PREMIERSHIP Worrying sight in big Cleary ‘question mark’ as maligned star’s huge play seals epic Ivan: 'God no, of course not' | 08:47 Martin Gabor from Newswire September 13th, 2026 7:34 pm Nathan Cleary faces a nervous wait after being sin-binned for a “very dangerous” act as the Penrith Panthers beat the Sydney Roosters 19-12 in an enthralling qualifying final.
Cleary may also have an issue with his foot as Penrith survived his 10 minutes off the field to earn the week off.
Cleary knew he was in strife from the moment he ran through his rival’s legs, with referee Gerard Sutton left with no choice but to march him.
“There’s force in it, it’s very dangerous and a high risk of injury,” Sutton said.
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