Nathan Cleary, the star halfback for the Penrith Panthers, has found his availability for the NRL season opener in jeopardy following a high tackle that resulted in him being sin-binned during a trial match against the Wests Tigers. The incident occurred as Cleary delivered a high shot on Tigers winger Heamasi Makasini, leading to a 26-12 defeat for the Panthers at Leichhardt Oval. The move drew jeers from the crowd and has sparked considerable attention as the Panthers prepare for the upcoming season.

The potential suspension is now in the hands of the NRL's match review committee, which will release its findings on Saturday morning. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting the decision, recognizing that losing Cleary, a pivotal figure in the Panthers' lineup, could significantly impact their chances against Brisbane in the season opener. The once-promising lead-up to the season now hangs in the balance as the team awaits the verdict on their star player's fate.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding player safety in rugby, particularly regarding high tackles, which have been a focal point of discussions in the league. As the NRL continues to address these issues and protect players, Cleary's situation serves as a case study in the fine line athletes must navigate between aggression and safety on the field. The outcome of this review could also set a precedent for how similar incidents are treated moving forward.