The Panthers, who are aiming for a historic fourth consecutive title, have got a significant boost ahead of their qualifying final.
Nathan Cleary, co-captain and superstar, has been picked to return against the Roosters on Friday night.
After an injury-plagued regular season, the halfback is ready to return at No. 7 at a critical juncture.
Cleary missed three games due to shoulder instability sustained during his team’s Round 24 blockbuster against the Storm.
It was a re-aggravation of an injury that had kept him out for a few months in the midst of the season.
Despite a disrupted season, his Panthers colleagues believe he will hit the ground running in the next playoff series.
“If there’s anyone in the game who’s going to come back and be in good shape, I believe it’s him,” halves partner Jarome Luai said.
“We all support him.
“He ticks all the proper boxes. You know how he is; he would do whatever to ensure that he is healthy and ready.
“He hasn’t missed a beat, so I’m backing him up.
Penrith’s home qualifying final against the Roosters will tip off at 7:50 p.m. AEST on Friday, September 13.
If they lose, they will face the winner of the Bulldogs vs. Sea Eagles elimination final in the semi-finals next week.
A win would send them directly to the preliminary final, with one victory separating them from another decider.
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