NRL Chief Suggests Nathan Cleary Could Join PNG Franchise Thanks to Mary Fowler Connection

The NRL’s CEO Andrew Abdo has expressed intrigue at the possibility of Nathan Cleary becoming part of the upcoming Papua New Guinea expansion team, primarily due to his relationship with Matildas sensation Mary Fowler.

Last year, officials revealed that a new franchise based in Port Moresby would enter the league starting in 2028, marked by a substantial $600 million investment.

Although the recruitment phase is still some time away, Abdo believes Fowler’s heritage and her connection with the Penrith Panthers’ star could be advantageous for the NRL as it seeks to establish itself in this new market.

Fowler’s mother hails from Kira Kira, a village situated to the north of the PNG capital, and Abdo posits that her strong ties to Cleary, a four-time premiership winner, could significantly bolster support for the franchise.

“This could turn out to be something quite exhilarating in the future,” he remarked during an appearance on the Hello Sport Podcast.

“It’s an electrifying partnership … it’s bound to capture public interest.

“Many of Mary Fowler’s supporters might now take an interest in rugby league. There are numerous individuals who aren’t typically sports fans but are intrigued by the romantic connection between the two.

“Clearly, having Nathan represent PNG in the future would also be quite fascinating.”

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Though it might seem a long shot to lure the Panthers halfback away from his lifelong club, the financial incentives could prove irresistible.

Owing to the tax breaks players would enjoy if they sign with the PNG franchise, Cleary stands to potentially become the highest-paid player in the sport’s history.

“It’s not something I’ve had to dwell on too much,” he remarked while in Las Vegas.

“I currently don’t have a family, but that will certainly be a topic of discussion, particularly if I start one. We will just have to wait and see.

“I think it’s brilliant for them. It’s exciting that the tax incentives they can offer might attract high-profile players … it will be intriguing.”

The statements from both Abdo and Cleary come as the NRL continues its plans for further expansion, with discussions around introducing a franchise in Perth also on the table.