Cleary’s defiant answer to lingering Origin question
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Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has brushed off “humbling” suggestions he could take over the NSW Blues job from Laurie Daley next year.
Cleary shocked everyone earlier this season when he announced that 2027 would be his final year in charge of Penrith, handing the reins to Peter Wallace.
Ivan Cleary speaks to media. Nine
It sent the rumour mill into overdrive almost immediately, with many theorising that Cleary would ditch club land to step into the State of Origin arena.
But when asked about his Blues aspirations on Wednesday morning, the four-time premiership winner said it wasn’t on his mind at this stage.
“I don’t know, it’s a long way away,” Cleary said.
“It just seems like when it can’t get bigger, it gets bigger. You know what you’re putting your hand up for, walking into a bit of a furnace … that’s for another day.”
Cleary was then asked if there was potential for Wallace to step in and coach the Panthers for a six-week period next year, allowing his mentor to coach Origin.
“No - that’s very humbling, but I’m fully focused on the job at hand this year and next year,” Cleary said.
The expectation is that Daley will stand down from coaching duties, despite the Blues pulling off a major upset in last week’s decider.
Trent Barrett, Boyd Cordner, Matt King and Michael Ennis have all been suggested as potential options to replace Daley for next year’s series.
In positive news for the Panthers, star hooker Mitch Kenny has officially re-signed with the club on a long-term deal.
Kenny had been linked with the PNG Chiefs for the 2028 season, but will remain at the foot of the Mountains on a four-year contract.
“Really big, assuming that all happens, it’s pretty close,” Cleary said a few hours before the Panthers confirmed the news.
“Mitch is a huge part of our team, not just the way he plays but he’s a great leader.
“I’m stoked that he’s just about ready to stay on here at the Panthers, all the fans should be super happy.”
Kenny has been sidelined with a leg injury for much of this season, but is nearing a return in the coming weeks as Penrith look towards another title tilt.
Mitch Kenny. Getty
“Mitch is an incredibly reliable and determined player who consistently demonstrates the courage and leadership we value,” general manager Shane Elford said in a statement on Wednesday afternoon.
“He has been an influential part of this team throughout an extraordinary period of success and continues to set an outstanding example through the way he prepares, competes and supports those around him.
“We are delighted that Mitch has committed his long-term future to the Panthers and look forward to seeing him continue to grow as a player and leader.”
The high-flying Panthers face the Broncos on Thursday night.
