League: NRL Sport: Rugby Country: Australia Category: Injuries

Nathan Cleary thanks Mary Fowler for Matildas absence support

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 11, 2026, 11:38 PM

Last updated Oct 11, 2026

Nathan Cleary thanks Mary Fowler for Matildas absence support

Summary

Mary Fowler withdrew from the Australian squad due to personal reasons to support her partner, Nathan Cleary, in Sydney following his major surgery. Fowler had been part of the Matildas before their 4-2 loss to Germany in a friendly match. Cleary expressed gratitude for Fowler's presence during his recovery. She has returned to Australia as he recuperates from his injury and surgery.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

Status Watch

•Mary Fowler withdrew from the Australian national team for personal reasons.
•Fowler has been with injured Nathan Cleary in Sydney post-surgery.
•Cleary expressed appreciation for Fowler's support during his recovery.
•The Matildas lost 4-2 to Germany in their recent friendly match.

Latest Updates

11:38 PMThe Guardian Sport — ‘So so grateful’: Nathan Cleary confirms reason behind Mary Fowler’s Matildas absence

What they're saying

"
Fowler pulled out of Australia squad for ‘personal reasons’ Attacker is now back in Australia with injured NRL star post-surgery Injured rugby league player Nathan Cleary has expressed deep appreciation to Matildas forward Mary Fowler, his partner who flew to Australia to spend time with him as he recovers from major surgery. Fowler withdrew from international duty with the Australian national team, who lost 4-2 to Germany in a friendly on Saturday, and has been spending time with Cleary in Sydney. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Jack Snape

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