NRL Star Nathan Cleary Emerges as a Wildcard Option for the Sydney Roosters
The Sydney Roosters have emerged as a potential destination for Nathan Cleary following a shock split with their premiership-winning halfback Sam Walker.
Nathan Cleary has officially entered free agency, and despite expectations that he will remain with the Penrith Panthers, the Sydney Roosters have emerged as a wildcard contender to secure the star halfback. The sudden departure of Sam Walker from the Roosters has unexpectedly opened the door for the club to explore marquee options for the future.
While Cleary is widely anticipated to stay at Penrith, where he has spent his entire professional career, the Roosters intend to present a compelling offer. Meanwhile, Papua New Guinea continues to pursue Cleary aggressively, though reports indicate they will need to enhance their pitch beyond tax-free financial incentives. Cleary has previously stated that money is not his primary motivator.
The unexpected exit of Sam Walker has created a domino effect in the National Rugby League player market. Walker parted ways with the Roosters after failing to reach an agreement on a contract extension, concluding a relationship that had recently grown strained due to behind-the-scenes negotiations and external inquiries from player representatives.
As Walker evaluates his next steps, several clubs have been linked to the young playmaker. The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have been suggested as a possible destination, though fitting him under the salary cap alongside their current star halfback Lachlan Galvin would require significant roster adjustments and financial assistance from the Roosters.
In international rugby league action, the Australian national team prepares to face the Cook Islands in their final Pool A fixture of the Rugby League World Cup 2026 at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville. Australia has already secured a spot in the semi-finals following hard-fought victories over New Zealand and Fiji.
Australian coach Kevin Walters has announced eight changes to his lineup for the upcoming match, welcoming back Reece Walsh at fullback and naming Tom Dearden at halfback. Debutant Sam Walker, who scored 16 points in the previous match against Fiji, has been named among the reserves.
The Cook Islands squad features former Australian international Valentine Holmes, who returns to face the country he previously represented in a milestone international matchup in his birthplace of Townsville. The Cook Islands are looking to rebound following a challenging tournament campaign as the group stage concludes.