Former Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan has expressed his belief that NRL star Nathan Cleary should be the next target for recruitment by rugby union, following the signing of young player Joseph Suaalii.
Suaalii recently completed his first week as a professional rugby player after securing a high-profile contract with rugby union amid some controversy. McLennan, who was removed from his chairman position on November 19 of last year, asserts that Suaalii’s signing has already proven to be financially beneficial.
“Joseph has already generated significant interest in rugby union and has effectively paid for himself repeatedly,” McLennan stated in an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald. He emphasized that Suaalii is already a global rugby star even before representing the Wallabies, and he believes the young player will serve as an excellent role model for aspiring athletes.
McLennan pointed out the long-standing underachievement of the Wallabies, which he argues necessitates an investment in elite players to enhance sponsorship, media rights, and audience engagement. Since the Wallabies last claimed a World Cup title in 1999 and haven’t won the Bledisloe Cup in 23 years, McLennan believes it’s clear that the current system requires a fundamental overhaul.
He advocates for a continued recruitment strategy from the NRL and encourages rugby to consider making a substantial offer to Panthers playmaker Nathan Cleary. “I would definitely pursue players like Nathan Cleary and others,” he remarked, highlighting the urgent need for talent ahead of the upcoming 2027 World Cup, which will be hosted in Australia. McLennan added, “We need another five players like Joseph, as time is of the essence. Fortunately, Joseph has generated significant conversation around the sport.”
He underscored the need for immediate action, stating, “Australia is currently ranked No. 10 in the world and needs a talent infusion, or there will be little left to promote.”
Currently, Cleary, 26, is enjoying a vacation abroad with his girlfriend, Mary Fowler, who plays football for Manchester City. There are ongoing rumors regarding Cleary’s potential interest in pursuing new challenges in his sporting career. However, during a recent event in the UK, Cleary dismissed speculation about a move, saying, “I won’t be moving over here any time soon.”
Cleary’s existing contract with Penrith is set to expire at the end of 2027, coinciding with the contract of his father and coach, Ivan Cleary. “I’ve heard all the rumors, but it’s nice to come over and support Mary and also to take a break,” the champion halfback noted.
Upon his return to Australia, Cleary is scheduled to undergo shoulder surgery. In September, he informed his mother, Rebecca, about his strategy for managing his injury through the NRL finals. “I told Mum that I needed to play three games, and that would be it,” Cleary shared after leading the Panthers to a 14-6 victory over the Melbourne Storm in the grand final on October 6 at Accor Stadium. He added, “I knew that if I worked hard, I could return from the injury in time for those matches, and it all worked out.”
In summary, McLennan’s push for rugby union to recruit top NRL talent like Cleary highlights the ongoing competition between codes in Australia, especially as rugby union seeks to regain its prominence on the international stage. With Suaalii already generating buzz, the emphasis on securing more elite players is seen as vital for the sport’s future.
