Penrith star Nathan Cleary apologises for “irresponsible and stupid” actions in lockdown

Drew Darbyshire

Penrith star Nathan Cleary has apologised for his “irresponsible and stupid” actions that led to him and team-mate Tyrone May receiving two-week suspensions.

The NRL has issued Cleary and May with breach notices. The additional matters relate to Cleary’s co-operation with the NRL integrity unit and he has been given a $30,000 fine and a two-match suspension.

His Panthers team-mate, May, has been issued a breach notice relating to the same matter. His notice proposes a $15,000 fine and two-match ban.

Cleary said: “I’m obviously pretty embarrassed by myself and not happy about what I have done.

“I just want to apologise for my actions. My actions were irresponsible, selfish, and just pretty plain stupid to be honest.

“I have brought a lot of negative attention to not only myself, but my family, the club, the game as well. That is probably what has hurt me the most.

“I have learned a lot about myself and I never want to go through this again. I think this could be a moment where I can kick on as a leader, and as a person.”

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