Penrith Panthers have been dealt a major blow with Nathan Cleary set to be sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Cleary has suffered a small tear in his hamstring as he was taken off in the closing stages of the win over the Broncos.
The halfback played a starring role in the grand final rematch victory over Brisbane in Round 3, but the display came at a price with the 26-year-old now set for a stint in the treatment room.
The No.7 was instrumental at the foot of the mountains, finishing with three assists as he tormented Kevin Walters’ side once again before getting his early mark with 10 minutes remaining on the clock.
Cleary has struggled with hamstring injuries in recent years with the No.7 also sidelined last year with a grade two tear. That injury ruled him out for six weeks which included the final two matches of the State of Origin series for New South Wales.
In Cleary’s absence last year, Jack Cogger filled in, but he has since departed to Newcastle.
Brad Schneider has featured in the NSW Cup since his arrival in the off-season to provide depth in the halves and is the most likely replacement.
However, in Jarome Luai’s absence for the World Club Challenge, young gun Jack Cole played alongside Cleary.
