The New Zealand Warriors have pulled off a major coup and secured the services of Jett Cleary, who is touted by many as one of the best young halves in rugby league.
Jett, the younger brother of Penrith Panthers star Nathan and son of current coach Ivan, has reportedly opted to return to the country he was born in ahead of the 2025 season, according to The Daily Telegraph.
The 17-year-old has starred for the Panthers throughout their youth ranks and is currently playing for the club’s SG Ball side.
The move has come as a shock to many due to Jett’s family ties at the Panthers but a potential crack at first grade has been floated as the likely motivator in the groundbreaking move.
Cleary was tipped to eventually partner his brother Nathan in the halves for the Panthers in the coming years as they prepare to farewell longstanding five-eighth Jarome Luai at the end of this season.
The signing is expected to be officially announced by the Warriors on Wednesday afternoon.
Photo/instagram @_jettcleary