LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Nathan Cleary is likely to lose his key goal-kicking role for New South Wales in the upcoming State of Origin decider, with coach Laurie Daley indicating that Zac Lomax will take over those duties.
Cleary has been managing a groin injury since the captain's run before Game 2, and despite showing improvement in the second half of that match, concerns remain about his fitness.
After facing criticism for his performance and for not kicking in the first half of Game 2, Cleary made a comeback in the recent Bulldogs clash, where he scored the winning try.
Nonetheless, NSW's coach Ivan Cleary chose to rest his Origin representatives in a match against the Warriors, underscoring the importance of managing player fitness.
Daley expressed optimism about Cleary's recovery, stating, "Ah yeah we think he will be 100 per cent fit," though he confirmed that goal-kicking responsibilities would likely shift to Lomax.
He acknowledged the difficulty Cleary faced in Game 2 due to his injury, saying, "It was just unfortunate that before game two he sort of twinged his groin."
The decision regarding Cleary's role, particularly in goal-kicking, will ultimately depend on how he feels as the game approaches, but Daley believes Lomax will excel in the position.
"I wouldn't expect him to goal kick.
I think Zac Lomax will do a great job for us," he added, indicating his trust in Lomax's abilities.
With over a week remaining before the decider, Daley is hopeful that Cleary will regain a near-full state of fitness, stating, "He's more confident now than what he was leading into game two." This time for recovery is crucial as they prepare for the critical match ahead.