Penrith Panthers co-captain Nathan Cleary has admitted it feels “weird” preparing to face off against his longtime teammate and close friend Jarome Luai, as the Panthers get set to take on the Wests Tigers this weekend. The pair shared a celebrated partnership in the halves at Penrith, helping lead the team to multiple premierships and forming one of the NRL’s most dynamic duos.
Luai’s off-season move to the Tigers marked the end of an era, and while Cleary remains focused on securing another win for the Panthers, he acknowledged the emotional challenge of playing against someone he considers “like a brother.”
“It’s definitely going to be weird seeing him in different colours,” Cleary said. “We’ve been through so much together on and off the field. But once the whistle blows, it’s game on.”
Despite the personal connection, both players are expected to bring their trademark intensity to the clash. Luai has been instrumental in the Tigers’ recent form turnaround, while Cleary continues to lead a premiership-contending Panthers outfit.
Fans can expect a passionate encounter, with mutual respect between the two stars—but no holding back when the game begins.
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