Nathan Cleary revealed he hasn’t taken a single goal kick since injuring his groin during the State of Origin captain’s run a fortnight ago, casting serious doubt over whether he’ll be fit to take the tee in next week’s series decider.
The New South Wales playmaker was visibly restricted by the injury in game two as the Blues suffered a narrow two-point defeat in Perth, despite scoring more tries than Queensland.
Zac Lomax, who assumed kicking duties, missed four conversions, a crucial margin in a game ultimately decided by goal kicking.
MORE: Origin bolter Gehamat Shibasaki reveals the conversation which turned it all around
Cleary missed Penrith’s trip to Auckland following Origin II, but returned to action in Thursday’s win over the Bulldogs. Even then, he left the kicking to others, and says he’s still uncertain about whether he’ll be fit enough to resume the role for NSW.
“Since it happened, I haven't had a goal kick yet,” Cleary told 9News on Tuesday. “You don't want to try it and then get another setback. It's a call we are probably going to make pretty early in the week. We will see.”
Lomax out to make amends after ‘disappointing’ night
Zac Lomax was so gutted after the loss in Perth that he declined to speak to media post-match.
But the Dragons star fronted up at Blues camp on Monday and made clear he’s ready to shoulder the pressure again, if required.
MORE: Origin Game 3 team lists
“I pride myself on being the best kicker I can be,” Lomax told 9News. “Sometimes you live or die by the sword when you goal kick, and you wear that heavy. I was disappointed. I'm a goal kicker and I love goal kicking, so nothing will change.”
Game three of the 2025 State of Origin series takes place next Wednesday at Sydney’s Accor Stadium.