Nathan Cleary likely to miss start of 2027 NRL season after second surgery

Penrith Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary is expected to miss the start of the 2027 NRL season after undergoing a second operation on his injured leg. The surgery follows a compound fracture and dislocation of his left ankle suffered during last week's preliminary final loss to Newcastle. Cleary was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery on the left leg, but he also carried a right foot fracture into the game, which has now been repaired in a second procedure. Panthers Group CEO Andrew Hill said the surgeon was happy with the operation, and Cleary is recovering at home with his parents. Hill indicated Cleary could return between rounds one and four of the 2027 season, depending on healing progress. The star halfback will miss Australia's World Cup campaign later this month.