LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Jett Cleary is poised for a significant advancement in his career with the Warriors following serious injuries to two key players during their Round 17 loss to Brisbane.
Halfback Luke Metcalf has suffered a season-ending ACL injury, while fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad is sidelined for the next four weeks due to a medial ligament tear.
This situation has prompted coach Andrew Webster to rearrange his team's spine, directly impacting selections for both the first-grade and lower-grade squads.
To fill Metcalf's No.
7 position, either Te Maire Martin or Tanah Boyd will step up, with the other likely taking a utility role on the bench.
In the backline, Taine Tuaupiki or Moala Graham-Taufa will replace Nicoll-Klokstad, although it's possible Webster may opt to slot Martin into the fullback position.
With significant changes at the top level, this leaves an opening for Jett Cleary.
Martin and Boyd have predominantly played together as the halves for the Warriors in the NSW Cup, the reserve-grade competition beneath the NRL.
If both are called up to the first-grade team, Cleary is expected to step into their former positions in NSW Cup.
Jett, the younger brother of Panthers star Nathan Cleary and son of Penrith coach Ivan, has primarily played in the Jersey Flegg competition, the Under-21 league, this season.
However, he made his debut in the NSW Cup last weekend when Martin and Boyd were tied up with the first-grade squad.
Due to logistical issues, Boyd had to travel to Brisbane, allowing Cleary to be promoted for the second time this season.
He performed exceptionally well, contributing to a 26-4 victory over Manly, extending the Warriors' winning streak to 11 matches.
In summary, Jett Cleary is stepping up in an opportune moment for the Warriors, with crucial injuries creating pathways for his advancement in the competitive landscape of the NRL.