Brad Schneider, the player designated as Nathan Cleary’s insurance for his bung shoulder, said he won’t have any concern if he sits on the bench for the entire grand final.
Not since Nicho Hynes was an unused substitute in Melbourne’s 2020 triumph has the prospect of a bench player not getting onto the field in a grand final been realised, but Schneider is well aware it could be a reality in his first NRL decider – and he’s not bothered by it.
Cleary is trying to manage his shoulder through one more game before it’s expected he will undergo off-season surgery, and coach Ivan Cleary is taking no chances with the make-up of his bench.
Back-up half Schneider has played only nine minutes in two finals matches so far, including the final six against the Sharks in the grand final qualifier after Cleary aggravated his injury. But he’s well aware his role is to primarily be cover for Penrith’s million-dollar man.
Asked if he would be content to not get on the field in the grand final if it meant Cleary’s shoulder survived the entire game, Schneider said: “Just to be a part of it [is fantastic]. It doesn’t matter where I am, I’ll be ecstatic either way.
“I’m just being open-minded for anything. It’s a bit different sitting on the bench, and I’m not really used to sitting on the bench. But I’m trying to stay ready.”
Panthers back-up halfback Brad Schneider.Credit: Getty Images
Cleary had no issues during the Panthers’ open training session on Tuesday and will face the biggest test of his shoulder in Friday’s session before the decider at Accor Stadium. Penrith medical staff are considering whether Cleary needs a painkilling injection for the grand final on Sunday night.
The Panthers had a similar scenario last year when Jack Cogger, who switched to the Knights this season, started on the bench for the grand final miracle win over the Broncos as Jarome Luai nursed a shoulder problem which needed reconstructive surgery.
Cogger came onto the field and helped Cleary inspire the biggest comeback win in NRL grand final history after Luai succumbed to his injury.
“I watched the game and I remember when Cogger came on, there’s a little bit in your mind thinking, ‘it could be me’,” Schneider said. “I came over here thinking I might only play one game of NRL, mostly [NSW] Cup. It’s a bit surreal at the moment.
“It’s pretty ridiculous to think you’re playing in a grand final. It’s a weird feeling. I just wanted, when the opportunity came up, to be in this culture and learn. I wanted to be able to learn off people like Nathan. I definitely didn’t think I would be here now.”
Schneider has made 14 appearances for the Panthers this year as Cleary has battled two hamstring tears and a subluxed shoulder.
