Nathan Cleary Exits Match Just Eight Minutes In Following Unfortunate Collision with Jahrome Hughes

Nathan Cleary’s time on the field was cut short in the grand final rematch against the Storm, lasting less than eight minutes due to a rough collision that sidelined him for the remainder of the game.

The Panthers halfback found himself on the receiving end of a hit from rival no.7 Jahrome Hughes after Melbourne launched a break down the right flank.

Ryan Papenhuyzen kicked the ball ahead, prompting a challenge for possession between Hughes and Cleary. However, Jack Cole managed to gain control first, leading to Cleary inadvertently turning his back to Hughes and being flipped awkwardly.

The impact of Cleary’s head striking the ground led to him being knocked out.

“He doesn’t look good,” remarked Andrew Johns on Nine.

“He was motionless for about 10 to 15 seconds.”

Commentator Mat Thompson echoed: “He appears to be in a daze.”

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The replays were met with boos from the crowd, although the incident itself didn’t seem malicious.

Following his departure from the field, Cleary was assessed and diagnosed with symptoms indicating a category one concussion.

Midway through the first half, images showed Cleary in the sheds having his strapping removed.

“He’d still be in a daze, trying to process what just happened…it’s all very blurry,” Johns noted.

Due to the mandatory 11-day stand-down period, Cleary will be unavailable for the Panthers’ round four clash against the Rabbitohs.