Mat Rogers Declares: “Moses Is the Better Kangaroos No.7” — A Bold Verdict That Shakes the Australian Rugby League World
By Sports Chronicle Australia | October 30, 2025
In one of the most talked-about statements of the year in rugby league, Australian dual-code legend Mat Rogers has officially and emphatically declared that Mitchell Moses, not Nathan Cleary, is the better choice for the Kangaroos’ No.7 jersey. The remark, which sent shockwaves through both the NRL community and the national rugby league camp, has ignited a heated debate across the sport about leadership, creativity, and what it truly means to wear the Australian halfback crown.
For Rogers, a man who has played at the highest level in both rugby league and rugby union, this was no casual comment. Speaking on a national sports program earlier this week, the former Cronulla Sharks, Gold Coast Titans, and Wallabies star made his opinion crystal clear.
“Right now, Moses is the guy. He’s the better No.7 for the Kangaroos,” Rogers said. “His control, his maturity, and the way he’s been steering Parramatta — and now the national side — it’s next level. Cleary’s an incredible player, no doubt, but Moses has the edge in game management under pressure.”
The statement instantly lit up social media and sports talk shows. Fans, pundits, and former players rushed to weigh in on Rogers’ bold assessment. The halfback debate — long a favorite topic among NRL fans — has now taken on a new intensity as the Kangaroos prepare for their next round of international fixtures.
A Tale of Two Halves: Cleary vs Moses
Both Nathan Cleary and Mitchell Moses have carved out exceptional careers, but their styles — and the paths they’ve taken — could hardly be more different.
Cleary, the Penrith Panthers maestro, has been the face of consistency and dominance, guiding his club to three NRL premierships and etching his name into modern rugby league folklore. His combination of precision kicking, calm composure, and ability to execute structured plays has made him one of the most admired halfbacks of his generation.
On the other hand, Moses, the Parramatta Eels’ dynamic playmaker, has been celebrated for his flair, speed, and ability to create something out of nothing. Often playing behind a less dominant forward pack than Cleary enjoys at Penrith, Moses has had to develop a knack for taking control in chaotic situations. His competitive edge, creativity, and courage under fire have earned him growing respect — and, now, Mat Rogers’ firm endorsement.
“Mitchell’s game has matured dramatically,” Rogers added. “He used to be all about flair — the big plays, the long passes. But lately, you can see how smart he’s become. His kicking game, his defensive reads, his leadership — they’ve all gone up a level. He’s reading the game better than anyone right now.”
The Turning Point: Kangaroos Selection 2025
The debate over the Kangaroos’ No.7 spot has been simmering since the 2025 season began. With Cleary suffering from intermittent hamstring injuries and form dips after Penrith’s latest premiership run, Moses seized his opportunity when called up for the Anzac Test earlier this year.
In that match, Moses delivered a masterclass performance — steering Australia to victory over New Zealand with pinpoint tactical kicking, crisp distribution, and a try assist that had fans and commentators raving. His combination with Cameron Munster in the halves was electric, evoking memories of Australia’s golden playmaking eras.
“That was the night he announced himself as a true Kangaroo,” said former coach Mal Meninga after the match. “He didn’t just fill in — he owned the game.”
Rogers, who was watching closely, said it was that performance that solidified his belief that Moses had finally surpassed Cleary on the international stage.
“Moses has always had the skills, but now he’s got the composure,” Rogers said. “He’s leading the line, not just playing his role. That’s what separates the good from the great.”
A Divided Rugby Nation
Rogers’ comments have polarised fans across Australia. Supporters of Nathan Cleary point to his championship pedigree, leadership in Origin, and ability to control big matches with surgical precision. They argue that one or two good Tests from Moses shouldn’t eclipse Cleary’s long-standing dominance.
However, Moses’ advocates — now armed with Rogers’ endorsement — counter that form and adaptability matter more than past accolades. They highlight Moses’ superior current season statistics: more try assists, higher kicking metres per game, and fewer errors compared to Cleary.
Social media exploded following Rogers’ interview. One fan wrote, “Finally, someone said it out loud. Moses is on another planet right now!” Another countered, “Cleary has three rings. Talk to me when Moses wins one.”
Even current players have joined the conversation. Reports suggest several Kangaroos teammates privately agree with Rogers’ take, admiring Moses’ on-field leadership and energy during recent training camps. Others, though, believe Cleary’s proven synergy with key forwards makes him the safer option for long tournaments.
Mat Rogers: A Voice That Commands Respect
Mat Rogers’ words carry weight — and not just because of his career achievements. As one of the few elite athletes to excel in both rugby codes, Rogers has a rare perspective on playmaking, spatial awareness, and game management. He knows what it takes to adapt and thrive in high-pressure environments, having represented Australia in both rugby league (the Kangaroos) and rugby union (the Wallabies).
In his career, Rogers played alongside some of the greatest halves in Australian history, including Andrew Johns, Darren Lockyer, and Brett Kimmorley. His ability to analyze and compare modern playmakers through that lens adds legitimacy to his comments.
“I’ve played with the best,” Rogers said. “And what I see in Moses right now — that’s special. He’s in that rare form where everything slows down for him. You can’t coach that.”
Cleary Responds With Grace
To his credit, Nathan Cleary took Rogers’ comments in stride. When asked about the remarks after a training session with Penrith, Cleary smiled and said,
“Mat’s entitled to his opinion. Mitch is playing great footy, and competition for spots only makes the Kangaroos stronger. I’ll just keep doing my best and let the selectors decide.”
It was a typically calm and composed response from Cleary, who has faced his share of scrutiny throughout his career. His ability to deflect controversy and stay focused on his game has always been one of his greatest strengths — and perhaps one reason why many still see him as the face of Australian rugby league.
What This Means for the Kangaroos
Coach Mal Meninga now faces one of the toughest selection dilemmas in his tenure. With both Moses and Cleary available, deciding who wears the No.7 will shape the team’s direction heading into next year’s World Cup cycle.
Cleary offers structure, predictability, and proven synergy with key Kangaroos veterans. Moses brings unpredictability, speed, and the kind of attacking flair that can break open tight Test matches.
Rogers’ comments have, if nothing else, forced Meninga and his selectors to reassess what they value most in their halfback: championship consistency or explosive creativity.
“You could build a world-class side around either of them,” Meninga told reporters diplomatically. “But it’s a good problem to have — two of the best halfbacks in the world competing for one jersey.”
The Bigger Picture: A New Era of Halfbacks
Beyond the immediate debate, Rogers’ comments highlight a generational shift in how the game views its playmakers. The modern No.7 isn’t just a field general; he’s an orchestrator, psychologist, and sometimes even a risk-taker. Moses embodies that evolution — a blend of intuition and intellect that reflects how rugby league itself has changed.
In the past, halfbacks like Johns, Cronk, and Thurston dominated through consistency and control. But today’s game, with its speed and unpredictability, demands adaptability — something Rogers believes Moses has in abundance.
“He can change the rhythm of a match in one set,” Rogers said. “That’s what scares opponents — and that’s what wins Test matches.”
The Verdict
Whether you agree with Mat Rogers or not, one thing is undeniable: the Australian No.7 debate is far from over. Moses’ meteoric rise and Cleary’s established brilliance have created a rivalry that will define the Kangaroos’ next generation.
For now, Rogers’ statement has done more than just spark headlines — it has reignited the passion and debate that fuel Australian rugby league. And as fans eagerly await the next Test lineup, one question burns brighter than ever:
Will Meninga stick with the safe hands of Cleary — or unleash the dynamic firepower of Moses?
Whatever the decision, one thing’s for certain: Mat Rogers’ words have ensured that every pass, kick, and try from either halfback will now be watched more closely than ever.
