Nathan Cleary, the four-time premiership winner and star halfback, has been described as a 'real', 'methodical', and 'ultimate professional' by his NSW Blues teammates. This article delves into the qualities that have made him one of the greatest players of all time, exploring his impact on the field and the challenges he's faced off it. With a focus on his State of Origin career, we examine how Cleary has navigated the outside noise and the scrutiny that comes with being a high-profile player. We also explore the impact of his performance in Game I of the 2026 State of Origin series, where he silenced his critics and led the Blues to victory. Finally, we consider the potential implications of a series-winning performance in Game II, and how it could further solidify Cleary's standing among the game's Immortals.
