The Panthers’ pursuit of their first WCC victory in 2023 is fueled by the agony of their previous defeat.
Nathan Cleary has criticized a circulating meme ahead of the World Club Challenge, which falsely attributes quotes to him and has gained traction among English fans. The meme, purportedly created by a Wigan supporter, features fabricated remarks from Cleary suggesting that the Panthers were out partying before last year’s WCC, which they lost 13-12 to St Helens, and that they were unfamiliar with the Merseyside club. Cleary refuted these claims, labeling them as “stupid” and emphasizing his team’s commitment to winning. He acknowledged St Helens’ superior performance in the previous WCC but expressed determination to avoid a similar outcome this year. The documentary “Saints Down Under,” focusing on that game, aired before the Panthers’ upcoming match against Wigan. Cleary stressed that despite the distractions, his team is focused on rectifying last year’s disappointment. Regarding concerns about head contact rules, the RFL clarified that the match will adhere to international rules, with any disciplinary action falling under respective federations’ jurisdictions.
