Cleary on Koroisau’s Return: A Masterclass in Team Play and the Joy of the Game
Nathan Cleary, the NSW Blues’ dependable halfback, typically presents a measured and composed demeanour. His answers are precise, his words carefully selected, revealing only what he intends. However, when the conversation shifts to the return of Apisai Koroisau to the State of Origin arena, a subtle change occurs. The composure remains, but a warmth surfaces, a genuine passion for the game he loves.
Leaning in slightly, a hint of something beyond mere camaraderie emanates from Cleary as he discusses his former teammate. “I think Api’s deception and subtleties at hooker is the best out of pretty much anyone I’ve ever seen,” he shared. “Being able to play alongside him, I love it.” This isn’t just about friendship; Cleary, having played with Koroisau extensively at both the Penrith Panthers and for the Blues, understands the profound impact the hooker has on the entire team’s performance.
“He just opens up so much space for everyone else,” Cleary elaborated, highlighting the collective benefit of Koroisau’s presence. While he acknowledges Koroisau’s toughness and defensive prowess, it’s his contribution with the ball in hand that truly excites Cleary. The underlying football intelligence, the quiet hum of strategic thinking, is evident when Cleary speaks of his teammate.
Measured. Composed. Every answer is the right length, every word carefully chosen. Nathan Cleary, the walk-up NSW Blues halfback reveals precisely as much as he intends.
Navigating the MCG and Future Conversations
Cleary’s analytical mind is also at play as he prepares for Game 2 of the Origin series. He’s already contemplating the unique dimensions of the Melbourne Cricket Ground and how he’ll need to adapt his kicking game accordingly. This demonstrates his meticulous approach to the game, his ability to process information with the quiet efficiency of someone who has spent years reading space and timing on the football field. He even hinted at ongoing football discussions with fellow NRL stars, including Sydney Roosters fullback James Tedesco and Parramatta Eels halfback Mitch Moses.
The “FOMO” of Being Rested
Another moment where Cleary’s enthusiasm for the game shone through was when he described his experience of not playing against the Warriors in Round 13. The feeling of being rested, while beneficial for the club, also brought a sense of missing out. “Yeah, it was great. Obviously, with Yeoie (Isaah Yeo), me and Bizza (Brian To’o) being rested and being able to watch that game against the Warriors and see the way the boys performed was incredible,” he recounted.
“It was a great game and a massive win for us as a club. I think a lot of the boys in that game took a lot of confidence out of it, but for us three that didn’t play, it was like we had almost a bit of FOMO that we weren’t out there,” Cleary admitted. “You want to repay the boys the following week, especially coming off the rest.” This sentiment underscores the deep connection Cleary feels to his teammates and the Panthers club.
Focusing on the Present Amidst Contract Speculation
The Panthers have enjoyed a dominant season, losing only one game. However, this success has been accompanied by significant speculation surrounding the future of many players, including Cleary himself, and the pressure to perform in Origin to be considered among the elite. Cleary, however, remains unfazed by the external noise.
“There hasn’t really been too much of a topic of conversation,” he stated. “I think that’s probably more for other people to talk about. At the moment, it’s such a hectic time of year, so I don’t want to waste too much energy thinking about that. I think everyone’s pretty locked into not only playing well for Penrith, but obviously, now that we’re in the Blues environment, we want to play well here.”
For a player who dissects rugby league with such depth, his approach to the upcoming Origin period is refreshingly straightforward. “I think once the origin period’s done, then it’s probably we can put more thought into it. But for the moment, it’s not even been a topic of discussion,” Cleary explained. His immediate focus is clear: “I just want to be able to prepare well to put myself in the best position to play as good as I can.”
If Nathan Cleary’s strategic foresight proves accurate, and his game plan for Game 2 unfolds as he envisions, Queensland might be facing a very challenging night at the MCG. His dedication to preparation and his deep understanding of the game are formidable assets for the NSW Blues.
