Overview
- Nathan Cleary’s pre-season Grade 2 dangerous contact charge was downgraded at the NRL judiciary, resulting in a $1,800 fine and no suspension.
- The case stemmed from a high shot on Wests Tigers winger Heamasi Makasini in a trial at Leichhardt Oval, where Cleary was sin-binned.
- Coach Ivan Cleary represented his son and argued initial shoulder-to-shoulder contact, with panellists Ryan James and Greg McCallum reaching a unanimous decision after brief deliberation.
- Penrith avoids the risk of a three-match ban that would have extended a two-game sanction and forced early-season reshuffles such as turning to Jack Cogger.
- The NRL has confirmed the pre-season incident does not affect Cleary’s Dally M Medal eligibility.