LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

Nathan Cleary and Australia's Manufactured Tall Poppy Syndrome

Only in Australia can the national rugby league side win 30 to 8, complete a 3-0 Ashes series whitewash on opposition soil, and still have the headlines focused on tearing down the team's halfback.

Nathan Cleary, one of the game's most disciplined and accomplished players, was rated a five out of ten for his performance against England. This reflects more on certain media segments and the fan sentiment they fuel rather than on Cleary's actual performance.

Some parts of the media thrive on a cycle of elevating heroes and vilifying them. They build players to untouchable levels and then tear them down for outrage and clicks. This business model has long been the foundation of tabloid media, and it's important to recognize that this doesn't always equate to genuine sports analysis. It's a strategy for financial gain.

Nathan Cleary has led Penrith to four consecutive premierships and five straight grand finals, redefining control and precision in the sport. He is not known for flashy moves; instead, he acts as a general on the field, leveraging his skills to dictate field position, tempo, and structure through a methodical kicking and passing game.

Penrith's system emphasizes discipline and momentum, grinding teams into submission with relentless ruck speed and quick play-the-balls. Cleary is the key architect of this strategy. He doesn't need to be featured prominently in highlight reels to control matches, but consistently, he's the player who can turn the game around when necessary.

In the Ashes series, where play-the-balls were significantly slower than NRL pace, Cleary made necessary adjustments. His ability to control territory and formation allowed his teammates to capitalize on opportunities. He was often the one taking hits and absorbing pressure, effectively setting the groundwork for the team's success.