Roosters coach Trent Robinson has backed Sam Walker to eventually surpass Nathan Cleary as the best halfback in the game as the playmakers prepare to go head-to-head on Thursday night.
The Roosters blockbuster clash with the Panthers is more than a battle between two premiership contenders; it’s another chance to see two of the game’s most talented Number 7's go head-to-head.
Walker has been at the heart of the Roosters remarkable six-game winning streak, steering Trent Robinson’s side into second place on the ladder and playing himself into the Queensland Origin side this year.
At the other end is Cleary, a four-time premiership winner and arguably the best halfback of the modern era, who is again leading Penrith’s charge towards the finals.
Never write off the Ice Man
Thursday's clash at CommBank Stadium is likely a precursor to a high-stakes battle during the finals and Robinson is eager to see his playmaker step up in the big moments.
“That’s why Thursday is a pretty important game for us,” Robinson said.
“It’s nice to see two different styles of halves going against each other. That’s why each game they play against each other, whether it’s State of Origin or whether it’s Thursday night, they’re always important for those guys.”
Match: Panthers v Roosters
Round 24 -
home Team
Panthers
1st Position
away Team
Roosters
2nd Position
Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney
Match broadcasters:
- WatchNRL
Thursday's match comes after Cleary and Walker went face to face during an enthralling State of Origin series.
Walker impressed on debut in Game One, but Cleary ultimately came away with man of the match honours after orchestrating the greatest comeback in Origin history.
Walker was on
The Queenslander then responded in Melbourne, leading the Maroons to a dominant win at the MCG to set up a decider.
Cleary finished on top at Suncorp Stadium, claiming the Wally Lewis Medal after the Blues stunned Queensland to regain the Origin shield.
With both players back at their clubs, the rivalry takes on a different meaning.
This time, there are two competition points, the minor premiership and finals on the line.
The two sides are level on 36 points on the ladder, with the victor to claim pole position in the run to the post-season.
While Cleary has achieved almost everything the game has to offer, Walker is beginning to establish himself among the competition’s elite.
The 24-year-old has taken his game to another level in 2026, combining with veteran Daly Cherry-Evans to form a dangerous attacking dynamic. With Walker in the No.7 jersey, the youngster has the Tricolours perfectly poised to bring the trophy back to Bondi for the first time in six years.
Sam Walker Try
While pleased with where his side is currently sitting, Robinson believes there is plenty more to come from his young halfback in the coming months and years.
“That’s obviously the way we see him,” Robinson said when asked if Walker could one day surpass Cleary as the best halfback in the game.
“He’s quite unique in the way that he plays.
“There’s different styles in halves and Sammy is unpredictable, and it’s beautiful to watch when he plays that role.”
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