Why Game III could help confirm Cleary's legacy

Matty Johns and Denan Kemp believe that State of Origin Game III could be monumental for Nathan Cleary’s legacy.

Having been instrumental in Penrith’s 4-peat, Cleary has already been spoken about as a future great of the game.

However, one aspect of his legacy that has been questioned is his performances at the Origin level.

Despite having been a part of the 2018, 2019 and 2021 Origin series-winning sides for NSW, he is yet to win a Game III decider having been absent in the 2019 clash.

Although, Cleary may not even make the field in Game III.

After having suffered a groin injury during the training camp for Game II which he played through, doubts still surround whether Cleary will be available for the huge game.

He was fit enough to play in their 8-6 win against the Bulldogs, scoring the deciding try. But his usual kicking duties were given to fellow Origin representative Dylan Edwards for the match.

The injury concern around Cleary has only continued, admitting in a press conference earlier in the week that he is yet to attempt a goal kick, still fearing that he could aggravate the injury by trying to attempt it.

If he is to play, Denan Kemp believes that a New South Wales win could be dependent on Cleary delivering the result.

“When the big moment comes and Nathan Cleary is unfortunately yet to win a decider,” Kemp said on SEN’s Morning Glory with Matty Johns.

“It really does hinge on Cleary delivering in a decider. And I think this will be his moment, but that has been the biggest concern for the Blues.

"When the moment arrives, do they take it or do they not?”    

Johns would quickly add onto Kemp’s comments.

“It’s a huge game in terms of Nathan’s career,” he quipped.

Kemp also made the point of noting that despite not having a definitive performance in Origin, he still has performed quite well.

“I think it is unfair to suggest that he hasn’t played well in Origin, I really do,” Kemp said.

“I think the question really is, he has played well. But to his own standard that he has set, which is ‘Is he one of the greats?’

“This is his opportunity to go, ‘I am one of the greats, I deserve to be in the conversation (as one of the greats). It is a huge game for him.”  

Game III take place on July 9 at Accor Stadium.

SEN will have three different commentaries for the game with a Queensland-themed, New South Wales-themed and neutral call across the SEN network and SEN app.