𝐍𝐑𝐋 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒: 𝐂𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐘 𝐕𝐒 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐍 – 𝐊𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐀𝐑𝐎𝐎𝐒’ 𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐕𝐄𝐒 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐀𝐂𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐒 𝐔𝐏 𝐀𝐒 𝐓𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏 𝐁𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐍𝐒
The Kangaroos’ test camp kicked off on Tuesday with two of the NRL’s premier playmakers — Nathan Cleary and Tom Dearden — front and centre of a growing selection debate that has fans and pundits buzzing. The question on everyone’s lips: who will wear the coveted No.7 jersey for Australia?
As the reigning Clive Churchill Medallist and the architect of Penrith’s dynasty, Nathan Cleary remains the favourite in many circles. His composure, control, and unmatched game management have defined the Panthers’ golden era, guiding them to four consecutive grand finals and three premierships. Yet, the return of Tom Dearden, fresh off a career-best season for the Cowboys and a stunning State of Origin campaign, has made the decision far from straightforward.
Speaking to reporters upon arrival at Kangaroos camp, both men remained humble, each deflecting attention away from the selection noise.
“It’s an honour just to be here representing Australia,” Cleary said. “There’s a lot of talent in this squad, and whoever gets the job, the main thing is doing what’s best for the team.”
Dearden echoed that sentiment but admitted the competition fuels him. “I’ve always looked up to Nath — he’s set the standard for halves in this generation. But at the same time, I’m here to push myself and show that I can lead at the highest level.”
Inside sources suggest Cleary is a “lock” for the No.7 jersey, with coach Mal Meninga valuing his experience and proven partnership with five-eighth Cameron Munster. However, the whispers around camp indicate Dearden’s work ethic and form have not gone unnoticed. Meninga has long admired his toughness and fearless running game — qualities that make him a natural fit for the Kangaroos’ attacking blueprint.
“Tom’s the kind of player who makes everyone around him better,” one team insider shared. “He never takes a backward step. Mal loves that kind of grit.”
Cleary, meanwhile, is reportedly still managing the final stages of his recovery after a minor hamstring scare late in the NRL season, though he insists he’s “feeling 100 percent” and ready to go.
The Kangaroos are set to face New Zealand in next week’s Pacific Championships opener, and Meninga is expected to reveal his halves pairing in the coming days. For now, the competition remains fierce — a reflection of Australia’s extraordinary depth in the playmaking department.
Whether it’s Cleary’s precision kicking and structured control or Dearden’s flair and fearless attack, the Kangaroos are spoiled for choice. But as history shows, wearing the green and gold comes with expectation — and only one man can steer the ship from No.7.
As the week unfolds, all eyes will be on training — where, according to insiders, the battle is “closer than people think.”
One thing’s for sure: whichever way Meninga leans, Australia’s engine room will be in world-class hands.
