Penrith have pulled Nathan Cleary out of their clash with South Sydney as they manage the superstar halfback's return from his hamstring injury.
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Cleary played his first game in a little over a month against North Queensland last week after suffering a hamstring injury in round three.
The 26-year-old felt some tightness afterwards and the Panthers have opted to take a cautious approach on a short turnaround ahead of Thursday's match.
The scheduling of a Saturday night fixture meant Penrith did not arrive home until Sunday night, effectively handing them a four-day turnaround.
The cluttered calendar meant Penrith were unable to have a full field session this week.
Penrith are insistent there are no serious concerns over Cleary's long-term fitness, with the halfback able to complete captain's run on Wednesday.
The No.7's injury means Brad Schneider will return to Penrith's halves against the Rabbitohs, while Jack Cole will come off the bench.
Viewed as the heir to Jarome Luai's No.6 jersey for next year, Cole has only played one NRL match previously for the Panthers.
But this is his first full selection, given his previous appearance was off the bench when the Panthers rested their top team in the final round against the Cowboys in 2022.
Souths have also made changes following the axing of coach Jason Demetriou.
Jacob Gagai is out with Isaiah Tass taking his spot on the wing and Michael Chee Kam moving into the centres.
Jai Arrow will start at prop with Keaon Koloamatangi returning to the second row and Sean Keppie coming onto the bench.
Australian Associated Press
