Penrith Panthers Fined $1.3 Million, Nathan Cleary Suspended for 10 Matches Following Judiciary Outcome
Penrith Panthers have been handed a $1.3 million fine and star halfback Nathan Cleary suspended for 10 matches after the NRL judiciary dismissed the club’s challenge against the grading of his careless high tackle charge on Monday night.
The decision comes after Cleary was sent to the sin bin during Thursday’s pre-season clash against the Wests Tigers for a high shot on winger Heamasi Makasini. Initially charged with a Grade 2 dangerous contact offense – carrying a three-match suspension, or two weeks with an early guilty plea – the Panthers took the bold step of contesting the grading in a bid to have Cleary available for the season opener.
However, in a ruling that surprised many, the judiciary not only upheld the original charge but increased penalties due to the club’s decision to challenge the finding. The $1.3 million fine includes $800,000 in financial penalties and $500,000 in suspended sanctions contingent on future compliance with NRL on-field conduct protocols. Cleary’s 10-match ban means he will miss the opening rounds of the 2026 campaign, with Jack Cogger set to step into the starting halfback role.
The tackle occurred with three minutes remaining in the first half, as Cleary collected Makasini with his shoulder while the winger juggled the ball – overshadowing his earlier contribution setting up Penrith’s opening try. The NRL match review committee had initially classified the incident as Grade 2, but during proceedings, judiciary panel members highlighted concerns over the contact point and potential risk of injury, leading to the enhanced sanctions.
Panthers CEO Brian Fletcher confirmed the club would accept the ruling without further appeal: “While we are disappointed with the outcome, we respect the judiciary’s decision. We took the challenge in good faith believing we had a strong case, but we understand the NRL’s commitment to player safety. We will now focus on supporting Nathan and preparing our team for the season ahead.”
The suspension is a significant blow for Penrith, who face a brutal early draw including matches against the Melbourne Storm, Brisbane Broncos, and Sydney Roosters. The club endured a slow start to their 2025 campaign and were keen to avoid a repeat, but will now be forced to navigate the opening rounds without their premiership-winning playmaker.
In a positive development for Cleary, the NRL confirmed the pre-season incident will not impact his eligibility for the 2026 Dally M Medal. The star halfback, who has never won the award despite multiple premiership successes, will still be in contention if he returns to form once his suspension concludes.
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