LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Nathan Cleary is preparing for an intense showdown with his former teammate Jarome Luai as they face off for the first time in the NRL this Sunday.
Following Luai's recent unsportsmanlike comments towards Wests Tigers teammate Jack Bird, there's anticipation for some fireworks during the match at CommBank Stadium.
Cleary's Panthers recently improved their standing in the NRL, climbing off the bottom of the ladder with an 18-10 victory against Parramatta.
They aim for their second consecutive win against a Tigers team that narrowly lost to North Queensland.
This game is significant as it marks the first competitive meeting between Cleary and Luai after Luai's move to the Tigers at the end of last season.
The duo, who achieved considerable success together at the Panthers, boasting 78 wins out of 89 matches in the halves and four grand final victories, will now face off as rivals.
Cleary acknowledged the oddity of facing Luai, emphasizing their shared accomplishments and history.
"We had a few duels back then but obviously it's been a long time," he said.
Reflecting on their junior days, he recalled a notable upset when his team, Penrith Brothers, defeated Luai's St Marys Saints, which was a significant victory considering the strong performance of the Saints in previous encounters.
"They used to beat us just about 50-nil every time...
and one day we got them.
He (Luai) might have cried.
I'm not sure that'll happen again," Cleary joked.
Despite their rivalry, Cleary expressed admiration for the impact Luai has had on the Tigers, stating that when the team has momentum, they are "one of the best teams in the comp." As the match approaches, both players look to make their mark in what promises to be an exciting encounter filled with competitive spirit and familiarity.