The Mole: Cleary’s ‘disaster’ and ‘massive triple challenge’ could reshape the Panthers-Storm rivalry entirely

After clinching four consecutive titles, it’s evident that the Panthers are now confronted with their toughest challenge yet in establishing a lasting dynasty in 2025.

The team has not only bid farewell to two pivotal players from their remarkable four-year journey—Jarome Luai (now with the Wests Tigers) and James Fisher-Harris (who has joined the Warriors)—but their formidable home ground at the base of the Blue Mountains is also undergoing renovations, leaving them without a true home venue this season.

This poses a significant challenge for Ivan Cleary and his squad. However, they have faced similar, albeit less daunting, obstacles in recent years and have navigated through them successfully.

Last season, Melbourne came close to dethroning the Panthers and will commence the new season with far fewer challenges than the reigning champions.

The bookmakers have installed the Storm as the favourites to take the title, and it’s almost a certainty that they will be contenders come the end of the season.

For the Panthers, the task will be to keep pace with them, as it appears early on that this could be yet another two-horse race.

Cleary is expected to rely on new signing Isaiah Papali’i (from the Wests Tigers) or the significantly improved youngster Lindsay Smith to fill the void left by Fisher-Harris, a task that may prove challenging.

The absence of Luai brings immense pressure onto Nathan Cleary, who will need to be present for the majority of the season; his potential injury could spell disaster for the side.

Only seven players remain from the roster that began the Panthers’ dynasty in 2021, yet the club continues to be a formidable force with attacking options throughout the field, even if they are slightly less experienced.

If they can maintain the health of their key players—particularly the outstanding Dylan Edwards, who excels at fullback, and Cleary orchestrating from the halves—the Storm may find themselves under pressure.

2025 Gains: Isaiah Papali’i (Wests Tigers), Blaize Talagi (Eels)

2025 Losses: Sunia Turuva (Wests Tigers), Jarome Luai (Wests Tigers), James Fisher-Harris (Warriors), Isaiah Iongi (Eels), Tyrone Peachey (retired)

Best Buy: Isaiah Papali’i was a dominant force during his time at the Eels but struggled with the Tigers. Surrounded by quality players, he should be able to rediscover his form.

It’s a Big Season For: Blaize Talagi has been earmarked to step into the crucial five-eighth role previously held by Luai, which places significant expectations on this young talent still finding his feet.

Biggest Question Mark: Can the Panthers maintain their momentum despite the significant departures of Luai and Fisher-Harris?

Predicted Finish: 2nd

Predicted Starting 17 for Round One: 1. Dylan Edwards 2. Brian To’o 3. Paul Alamoti 4. Izack Tago 5. Casey McLean 6. Blaize Talagi 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Moses Leota 9. Mitch Kenny 10. Lindsay Smith 11. Scott Sorensen 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo. Bench: 14. Soni Luke 15. Isaiah Papali’i 16. Liam Henry 17. Luke Garner

Sportsbet Odds to Win the Competition: $4.80