The NRL is scrambling to verify a wave of unconfirmed reports that surfaced this afternoon suggesting Penrith Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary may be facing disciplinary action following an alleged irregular test result. The claims, which appeared suddenly on social media, sparked immediate concern across the rugby league community and quickly gained traction.
League officials have not confirmed the accuracy of the allegations, but a spokesperson acknowledged late today that the NRL’s Integrity Unit is “seeking information and clarification” after becoming aware of the circulating reports. The spokesperson stressed that no official suspension has been issued at this stage and that the league will provide updates once facts are established.
The Penrith Panthers have declined to comment pending official guidance from the NRL, though internal sources suggest the club was caught off-guard by the rumours and is awaiting formal communication. Cleary remains active on the club’s roster, and no directive has been given to stand him down.
The sudden burst of speculation has triggered widespread debate online, with fans demanding clarity while analysts urge patience until the Integrity Unit completes its preliminary checks. Matters related to testing procedures are typically handled with strict confidentiality, and any formal action would require multiple levels of verification.
Cleary, widely regarded as one of the game’s premier playmakers and a cornerstone of Penrith’s premiership success, would be a major loss for the club should any disciplinary action materialise. For now, though, no penalty has been confirmed, and the situation remains in the assessment stage.
The NRL is expected to release an official statement once it confirms the nature—and validity—of the reports currently circulating.
More updates will follow as information becomes available.
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