Nathan Cleary has dismissed speculation linking him to a code switch, insisting he will avoid any talks with the breakaway rugby union competition R360 after the NRL threatened a 10-year ban for players who negotiate with the organisation. The Penrith Panthers halfback, who has won four consecutive NRL titles, is in London ahead of rugby league's first Ashes series since 2003.
Cleary told Daily Mail Sport that the threat of suspension was enough to keep him away from R360's advances. 'There's a lot of speculation about it. They (NRL) came out with a 10-year ban if you get caught talking to R360 so I'll be avoiding that! I don't want to be banned for 10 years... Nah,' he said.
The 27-year-old is part of a star-studded Australia squad featuring Reece Walsh, Cameron Munster and former union winger Mark Nawaqanitawase. They face England at Wembley on Saturday in the first Test, with more than 60,000 tickets sold. Cleary described playing at the iconic venue as a 'historic moment' and noted the growing international appeal of league compared to union.
Cleary also praised England centre Herbie Farnworth, calling him a 'world-class centre' and one of the top three in the game. The Australian team is considered favourites, but Cleary acknowledged the quality of the opposition. The series includes Tests at Everton's new stadium and Leeds' Headingley Carnegie.
