The Mole: Panthers Facing Renewed Pressure as Rivals Target Four-Time Premiership Champion

The Panthers are once again facing pressure, with a number of English clubs setting their sights on star forward Scott Sorensen.

The Kiwi international has become a key player for Penrith since transferring from Cronulla in 2021 and has been integral in all four of their premiership wins.

At 32 years of age, Sorensen still has a year remaining on his contract with the Panthers.

However, should he receive a lucrative long-term offer from a Super League club, his management might seek an early release.

“We could present him with a three-year contract, the captaincy, provided transport, and accommodation – an enticing package,” revealed the head of a struggling Super League club to Wide World of Sports.

Currently, there have been no discussions, and Sorensen, regarded as one of the game’s most undervalued athletes, is content to remain with the Panthers.

He is vital to the club, consistently delivering performances week in and week out, and unlike some of his teammates, does not command a hefty salary, which has complicated the salary cap situation for the defending champions.

In recent seasons, rival clubs have significantly diminished the Panthers’ roster, acquiring numerous star players; nevertheless, the Panthers continue to find ways to rejuvenate their squad and clinch titles.

Catch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

ALARMING INCIDENT IN JUNIOR LEAGUE

Numerous reports of inappropriate conduct at junior league matches cross my desk regularly, but one incident this week surpasses the rest.

At a recent junior carnival in Sydney, a player allegedly threatened to ‘slit the throats’ of two opposing players.

The boys involved were all competing in the under-15s category. The incident was brought to the attention of the ground manager and junior league officials, but without concrete evidence, further action was not taken.

However, the two young victims of this verbal abuse were so unsettled that they have since been receiving counselling from a welfare manager. Truly disheartening times.

WARRIORS STAR ON CLUBS’ RADAR

Rumours persist that Warriors fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad may be set for a move to the Super League in 2026.

At 29, Nicoll-Klokstad has attracted interest from various English clubs and stands to secure a substantial contract as his career progresses.

This speculation has been intensified by the Warriors reportedly planning to make a bid for Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga, enticing him to connect with his ancestral roots.

Prepare for significant player movement in the upcoming months.

NEW BRAITH ON THE BLOCK FOR THE BULLDOGS

It was exactly 25 years ago that Braith Anasta made his debut for the Bulldogs, marking the start of a successful NRL career.

A quarter of a century later, the Dogs have welcomed a new Braith – Braith Sloane. This 17-year-old Indigenous talent hails from the rural town of Condobolin.

Sloane has made such an impact in the Harold Matts Cup that the Bulldogs have rewarded him with a new and extended deal this week.

The speedy centre is currently boarding at Newington College, where he has excelled in the GPS rugby union competition.

Keep an eye on this name; it’s certainly one that resonates at Belmore!