LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Penrith Panthers rising star Jack Cole has caused quite a stir with his unexpected selection for the NRL's opening game in Las Vegas on Sunday, but he is determined to make the most of this opportunity.
The versatile five-eighth, who can also slot in at centre, has always been seen as a key player in Penrith's future game plan.
While his progress may not have been as rapid as some had hoped, things took a surprising turn at the end of 2024 when Penrith brought in Blaize Talagi from the Parramatta Eels as a replacement for Jarome Luai, who made a lucrative move to the Wests Tigers for the 2025 season.
However, on Tuesday, Penrith coach Ivan Cleary shocked many by naming Cole as a starter for the season opener, reaffirming the club's commitment to nurturing their own young talent to maintain their stronghold as one of the NRL's top teams.
Speaking from Las Vegas ahead of Penrith's Round 1 showdown against the Cronulla Sharks, Cole expressed his determination to cement his spot in the team for the entire season.
"The jersey I've been given is one I plan to hold onto tight and run with for the long haul," Cole told The Sydney Morning Herald.