Panthers Lock Down Kangaroos Prop Lindsay Smith with Three-Year Deal
The Penrith Panthers have secured a significant boost ahead of the upcoming NRL season, with Kangaroos prop Lindsay Smith committing his future to the club for another three years. This crucial re-signing, extending his tenure until at least the end of the 2029 season, comes as a welcome piece of news for the Panthers faithful.
Smith had been the subject of speculation, with reports linking him to a lucrative move to the newly formed Perth Bears for the 2027 season. However, his decision to remain at Penrith provides stability and continuity for Ivan Cleary’s squad, particularly as the club braces for other potential player movements.
The Panthers are already set to see middle forward Liam Henry depart for the Bears in 2027. Furthermore, the NRL’s newest expansion team is reportedly nearing a deal to sign Penrith’s decorated backrower, Scott Sorensen, a four-time premiership winner whose current contract with the Panthers concludes at the end of the forthcoming season.
Despite these looming departures, coach Ivan Cleary expressed his delight at retaining Smith. The 26-year-old prop was identified as a priority re-signing for the club, and his extended commitment is a testament to his value. Since making his debut in 2021, Smith has been an integral part of the Panthers’ success, contributing to two premiership victories and featuring in 80 games for the club. His impressive form has also earned him representation for the Kangaroos, having played two Tests for the national side.
“Lindsay is a tremendous asset to our team, both in what he delivers on the field and the standards he sets every day at training,” Cleary stated following the confirmation of the new deal. “His work ethic, consistency, and physicality are invaluable to our forward pack.”
Club Leaders Hail Smith’s Character and Commitment
The sentiments of the coaching staff are echoed by Panthers CEO Matt Cameron, who lauded Smith’s leadership qualities and unwavering work ethic. Cameron believes Smith embodies the core values that the club cherishes.
“Lindsay is not only an outstanding footballer, he’s an exceptional person who represents this club with humility and pride,” Cameron commented. “He is a terrific fit for our culture and a role model for our younger players coming through the system. His re-signing is an example of our club’s built-from-within mantra.”
Smith’s journey with the Panthers is a prime example of the club’s successful development pathways. He joined the Penrith pathways program at the age of 14, progressing through the ranks as a junior from St Marys. His retention is seen as a significant victory for the club, according to General Manager of Football, Shane Elford.
“Lindsay is developing into one of the elite props in the competition, and we’re extremely pleased to have re-signed him,” Elford remarked. “He has come through our pathways and understands what it means to represent the Panthers and our community.”
Smith’s Rise to Prominence
Since the departure of Kiwi Test prop James Fisher-Harris at the end of the 2024 season, Lindsay Smith has increasingly taken on a leadership role within the Panthers’ formidable forward pack. His national team debut for the Kangaroos in the 2024 Pacific Championships final, where Australia defeated Tonga, marked another significant milestone in his burgeoning career. While he has yet to make his State of Origin debut, he was included in the New South Wales squad last year, highlighting his growing recognition at the representative level. His extended contract ensures he will continue to be a cornerstone of the Panthers’ forward pack for years to come.
