LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a recent article, Brisbane Broncos legend Darren Lockyer has weighed in on the ongoing debate about who is the greatest halfback in Rugby League history.
Lockyer has declared that Nathan Cleary has entered elite company after his outstanding performance in the NRL grand final, where the Penrith Panthers secured their third consecutive premiership.
Lockyer was particularly impressed by Cleary's ability to turn the game around with a stunning 40/20 kick and a solo try that ultimately won the match for his team.
The former Broncos captain drew comparisons between Cleary and the legendary Andrew Johns, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest halfbacks of all time.
Lockyer reminisced about a moment in the 2005 State of Origin series when Johns kicked a 40/20 and then proceeded to dominate the game.
He saw a similar level of dominance from Cleary in the grand final, as the young halfback took control of the game despite his teammates' injuries.
Lockyer expressed his awe at Cleary's talent and highlighted the fact that the young halfback still has many years ahead of him to further enhance his legacy.
He emphasized that Cleary already has an enormous legacy, but with potentially eight more years in his career, there is plenty of time for him to build an even stronger reputation.
Lockyer's praise for Cleary adds weight to the ongoing debate surrounding the greatest ever halfback in Rugby League.
With his exceptional performance in the grand final, Cleary has certainly made a strong case for himself and cemented his place among the game's elite.