Panthers make shock switch on eve of Grand Final qualifier

Penrith has made a late change to their team list ahead of their preliminary final clash against Newcastle, with Nathan Cleary starting from the bench.

During the Panthers' 19-12 qualifying final win over the Roosters, Cleary picked up a stress fracture in his foot, which has seen his playing status heavily speculated throughout the last two weeks.

The superstar halfback was initially named in the No. 7 jersey for their Grand Final qualifier against the Knights on Tuesday.

But instead, Jack Cogger has been elevated from the bench to start in the halves with Jack Cole at five-eighth.

The winner of this clash will face Sydney in the 2026 NRL Grand Final at Accor Stadium on October 4.