As the 2025 NRL season approaches, the Penrith Panthers have formally unveiled their top 30 players, setting the stage for what promises to be another thrilling year for the club. The Panthers, who have dominated Australian rugby league in recent seasons, are looking to continue their legacy of success, aiming for a fourth consecutive grand final appearance and possibly their third championship title in as many years. With an impressive roster stacked with talent and a blend of experience and youth, the Panthers are primed for another strong season in the NRL.

1. Leadership Core and Experience
One of the key elements that has set the Panthers apart in recent years is their strong leadership and depth of experience. Heading into 2025, the team continues to be led by one of the NRL’s most successful and reliable captains, Nathan Cleary. Cleary, a two-time Dally M Halfback of the Year and one of the game’s premier playmakers, is a central figure in the club’s success. His leadership, both on and off the field, is pivotal as the Panthers look to maintain their dominance.

Alongside Cleary, the leadership group includes his brother, Jarome Luai, who has firmly established himself as one of the most dynamic and unpredictable five-eighths in the competition. Luai’s creativity and flair, combined with his ability to break open defenses, make him an integral part of the team. Other key experienced players like Isaah Yeo (captain of the New South Wales Blues) and James Fisher-Harris (a hard-hitting forward with an unrelenting drive) provide the backbone for the team. Their combination of skill, grit, and leadership ensures that the Panthers remain a force to be reckoned with.

2. A Seamless Blend of Youth and Experience
The Panthers are renowned for their development of young talent, and the 2025 roster is no different. Players like Scott Sorensen, who has developed into one of the best back-row forwards in the NRL, and Charlie Staines, who has proved himself as a lightning-fast winger, will continue to play key roles in the side. Both Sorensen and Staines offer speed and versatility, with the ability to break through opposition lines and create chaos in attack.

Rising stars like Taylan May and Sunia Turuva have also firmly established themselves in the first-grade squad, making the Panthers’ future look incredibly bright. May’s blistering pace and finishing ability on the wing make him one of the NRL’s most exciting young talents, while Turuva’s strong work ethic and ability to find the try line make him an ideal partner for May on the edge.

In addition, the Panthers’ forward pack has a promising mix of emerging players, such as young props like Moesha Faga’a. These players provide depth to the already solid front row and add an element of unpredictability to the team.

3. The Influence of Coach Ivan Cleary
Head coach Ivan Cleary remains one of the most respected figures in the NRL. Under his guidance, the Panthers have become a powerhouse in Australian rugby league, dominating the competition with their structured yet free-flowing style of play. Cleary’s ability to get the best out of his players is evident in the consistent success the club has enjoyed over the past several seasons. His focus on discipline, defense, and a no-frills approach to attacking has shaped a culture of excellence within the team.

Cleary’s experience, particularly in big-game situations, will be crucial as the Panthers aim for continued success in 2025. His calm demeanor and tactical acumen make him one of the best in the business, and his influence over the squad will be a key factor in the team’s pursuit of another premiership.

4. Strengthening the Forward Pack
The forward pack, an area where the Panthers have consistently excelled, remains one of their greatest assets heading into 2025. Players like James Fisher-Harris, Viliame Kikau, and Liam Martin provide the Panthers with strength and aggression up front. Fisher-Harris and Kikau, in particular, have been standout performers in recent seasons, with their hard-running, physical style of play dominating opposition forwards.

Liam Martin, an Australian representative, is another key figure in the forward pack. His relentless work ethic, high motor, and ability to contribute in both attack and defense make him a vital part of the team’s success. With the inclusion of some exciting young forwards, such as Spencer Leniu and Moses Leota, the Panthers’ forward pack is deep and formidable, able to match the best teams in the competition.

5. A Promising Bench and Depth
Another reason the Panthers are so formidable is their impressive depth. The club’s bench for 2025 features a mix of experienced players and hungry young talents ready to make an impact.