Nathan Cleary faces uncertain World Cup availability due to foot injury
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 8:30 AM
Last updated Sep 24, 2026

Nathan Cleary, halfback for the Penrith Panthers, is dealing with a foot injury and will play against the Newcastle Knights this weekend. Although he is set to participate in the preliminary final, coach Kevin Walters acknowledged that Cleary's availability for the upcoming World Cup is in doubt. Cleary suffered a stress-related bone issue during the Panthers' qualifying final, and if he is unable to compete, Sam Walker and Mitchell Moses are potential replacements. Isaah Yeo, also facing a fitness concern, desires to play in the tournament while needing surgery soon.
- •Cleary set to play against Newcastle this weekend.
- •His World Cup participation remains uncertain due to foot injury.
- •Coach Kevin Walters expressed concerns about Cleary's fitness.
- •Sam Walker and Mitchell Moses are possible replacements for Cleary.
- •Isaah Yeo also dealing with injury and may need surgery.
- 8:30 AMZero Tackle NRL — Kevin Walters provides worrying Nathan Cleary update ahead of World Cup
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