“Every team goes at a half, but Lachie has done a great job,” Preston said. “He’s a big boy who puts his body in front and always has a crack. At training, he’s always ripping in and making sure he gets better each week.
“I don’t think he let all this outside noise affect him. He’s really level-headed, he’s the first person in here at training and making sure he’s becoming a better player and person. It’s really admirable. I’ve only known him a short time, but I’m proud of him.”
Crichton is one of the best defensive centres and communicators in the game, and his expected absence will only embolden Penrith to single out Galvin. The chemistry between Talagi and McLean has improved every week.
McLean toured Papua New Guinea with Galvin with the Australian Schoolboys team in 2023, and was not about to disrespect his former teammate when it came to assessing his tackling efficiency.
“He’s an amazing player,” McLean said. “You have to respect you opponents no matter what, and Lachie [is the same].
Meanwhile, McLean was flattered to learn NSW coach Laurie Daley had inquired about his availability for future Origin campaigns in the event the NRL changes eligibility criteria to allow New Zealand players to represent the Blues or Queensland.
Casey McLean and Blaize Talagi have been on fire on the Panthers’ left edge.Credit: Getty Images
McLean, who was born and raised in Sydney’s west, played Test football for the Kiwis last year to honour his mother and father, Shannon and William. Under current eligibility rules, McLean cannot now represent NSW and Australia.
When it emerged the NRL was considering opening up Origin to all nations midway through the year, Daley identified McLean as a player who could one day represent NSW, which he did in the younger age groups.
“I’m happy I’ve had the chance to represent my culture, mum and dad grew up in New Zealand, so there are no regrets there,” he said.
“If the rules were to chance, that would be cool, not just for myself, but other players in the same boat, especially given I grew up here in Sydney.”
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