Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Nathan Cleary has escaped suspension after the NRL Match Review Committee declined to charge him for a tackle on Ezra Mam during the Penrith Panthers’ 14-12 loss to the Brisbane Broncos. The decision, announced on Friday, July 17, 2026, keeps the halfback available following Thursday night’s wet Round 20 contest at CommBank Stadium.
Nathan Cleary was penalised and placed on report by referee Todd Smith in the 25th minute. The Penrith Panthers playmaker lifted Ezra Mam’s legs before driving him toward the ground as Liam Martin joined the tackle.
The news follows another major Penrith Panthers coaching update, with Ivan Cleary ruling out a Panthers and New South Wales double role.
Todd Smith ruled that Ezra Mam had been placed in a dangerous position, but the Match Review Committee decided the incident did not warrant a charge. The outcome is recorded through the official NRL judiciary report.
Nathan Cleary has previously faced punishment for dangerous contact. He received a five-match suspension in 2022 after being sent off for a dangerous throw on Dylan Brown.
Earlier in 2026, Nathan Cleary successfully challenged a careless high-tackle charge at the NRL judiciary. Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary assisted his son during that hearing, which ended without a suspension.
The latest ruling is welcome news for a Penrith Panthers side already missing reserve halfback Jack Cogger. Jack Cogger is serving a two-match suspension for a high tackle on South Sydney Rabbitohs player Ashton Ward in Round 18.
Penrith Panthers hooker Freddy Lussick was the only player charged following the Brisbane Broncos match. Freddy Lussick received a fine for a grade-one dangerous tackle on Payne Haas in the 46th minute.
