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Daly Cherry-Evans has acknowledged that Nathan Cleary is set to be the Kangaroos' No. 7 for the upcoming Pacific Championships, but remains open to representing Australia if needed. With uncertainty over whether Cleary will require shoulder surgery, Cherry-Evans remains hopeful for an opportunity to contribute. While an extended Australian squad is being finalized, and stars like Mitchell Moses, Tom Dearden, and Matt Burton are expected to feature, Cherry-Evans may face being left out if Cleary is available.
The Manly skipper, however, has come to terms with the fact that Cleary is now the first-choice halfback. Reflecting on his future, Cherry-Evans acknowledged that retirement from representative football is approaching, but he is not ready to make that call just yet. “If Nate is healthy, Nate plays,” Cherry-Evans said, recognizing Cleary’s status as the top option. “But with uncertainty around his injury, I’ll keep the door open.” He added that last year’s surprise call-up only came after Cleary’s injury in the grand final.
Cherry-Evans also hinted that he might eventually need to step away from representative duties to extend his NRL career beyond 2025. However, he’s still keen to contribute if called upon.
Elsewhere, Cameron Munster’s availability remains a question, with Melbourne likely to push for him to undergo double hip surgery. The selection dilemma for fullback intensifies as Kalyn Ponga, James Tedesco, and Dylan Edwards all present strong cases for the role. Meanwhile, Ben Hunt is facing pressure from Connor Watson for the backup hooker position behind Harry Grant, with Watson having made a remarkable return from injury this year.
On the New Zealand side, the Kiwis face their own challenges, especially in the halves. With Dylan Brown and Kieran Foran ruled out due to injuries, coach Stacey Jones might turn to veteran Shaun Johnson to come out of his short-lived retirement. Other options include Newcastle’s Phoenix Crossland and a surprising contender in Zach Dockar-Clay, who could make a left-field Test debut despite limited NRL experience.
In Tonga's camp, Lehi Hopoate, the latest talent from his renowned family, is likely to feature in their squad for the Pacific Championships. At just 19, Hopoate looks set to carry on the legacy of his relatives at the international level.
As the Pacific Championships approach, fans and players alike await final roster decisions, with plenty of drama and excitement still to unfold.
In conclusion, Daly Cherry-Evans has gracefully accepted that Nathan Cleary is the top choice for Australia's No. 7 jersey, but remains prepared to step up if needed. As the Kangaroos' squad for the Pacific Championships faces uncertainties with player injuries and surgeries, Cherry-Evans reflects on his potential final years in representative rugby, balancing his desire to contribute with the reality of possibly winding down his career. With other positions, like fullback and the halves, also presenting tough selection challenges, the tournament is shaping up to be a showcase of both established stars and emerging talents from across the Pacific nations.