Coronavirus Australia: Penrith Panthers, Blues NRL player Nathan Cleary investigated for flouting social distancing during lockdown
NSW Police are investigating images which appear to show Penrith and NSW halfback Nathan Cleary flouting self-isolation rules.
NSW Police are investigating images which appear to show Penrith and NSW halfback Nathan Cleary flouting self-isolation rules.
The Panthers playmaker was already the subject of an NRL investigation after Penrith officials informed the governing body on Tuesday morning of the images, which were posted on social media and found their way into the hands of the Nine Network.
Revelations that Cleary is under investigation comes as the NRL prepares to hand down sanctions to South Sydney star Latrell Mitchell and Melbourne winger Josh Addo-Carr for breaking laws around self-isolation.
Both are expected to be fined and potentially suspended for games once the competition resumes on May 28.
Cleary is likely to face similar action should he be found to have breached the rules. The Nine Network obtained images which showed Cleary sitting on a couch while surrounded by as many as five women, some with their arms draped over the Blues State of Origin star.
It is understood the girls were friends of Cleary’s sister and had dropped in to see him on Anzac Day before leaving after a short time.
Regardless, he now faces censure from the NRL as they prepare to come down hard on players who flout the rules.
Penrith chief executive Brian Fletcher said Cleary was remorseful for his actions.
“Penrith Panthers acknowledges the photos of Nathan Cleary being shared by the media in regards to social distancing regulations,” the club said in a statement.
“The club was first made aware of the photos on Tuesday morning and immediately forwarded them to the NRL.
“The matter is now in the hands of the NRL and the club will be making no further comment at this time.”
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Panthers statement regarding Nathan Cleary. pic.twitter.com/DUVs415NsG
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