EXCLUSIVE: Tylor Bunting speaks on return to Penrith, learning off Nathan Cleary…..

**EXCLUSIVE: Tylor Bunting Speaks on Return to Penrith, Learning Off Nathan Cleary**

Promising young halfback Tylor Bunting has opened up about his return to the Penrith Panthers, expressing excitement about rejoining the club where his rugby league journey began and learning from none other than Nathan Cleary.

Bunting, 21, was a standout in Penrith’s junior system before spending time with a rival NRL club in pursuit of first-grade opportunities. Now, the talented playmaker is back in Panthers colours, determined to grow under the guidance of Cleary and the club’s elite coaching staff.

Speaking exclusively, Bunting described the move as a “homecoming.”

“It honestly feels like coming home,” Bunting said. “Penrith has always been where I felt most comfortable. I know the systems, the culture, and the expectations. Coming back, I feel like I’ve got unfinished business.”

Despite facing stiff competition in a stacked Panthers squad, Bunting sees the opportunity to work closely with Nathan Cleary as a key step in his development.

“Nathan’s the best halfback in the world. Just being in the same training environment as him is massive. I’ve already picked up so much just by watching how he prepares — the detail in his game, his leadership, his calmness under pressure,” Bunting explained.

The young half is under no illusions about where he stands in the pecking order but is embracing the chance to absorb everything he can from Cleary and the coaching staff, led by Ivan Cleary.

“I’m here to learn and to grow,” he said. “If I can develop even a fraction of what Nathan brings to the game, I’ll be a much better player. But I also back myself — I want to be ready when that opportunity comes.”

Panthers insiders say Bunting’s maturity and work ethic have impressed early in pre-season, with coaches quietly confident he can make an impact in the years to come.

With Cleary’s heavy representative schedule and the ever-present risk of injuries, Bunting knows opportunities can arise quickly.

“You’ve always got to be ready,” Bunting said. “Whether it’s NSW Cup or first grade, I’ll be giving it everything. I’m here to contribute in any way I can and be ready for my moment.”

Bunting’s return adds further depth to an already formidable Penrith squad — and fans will be watching closely as the next generation of playmakers takes shape behind their superstar No.7.