Isaah Yeo cleared to delay surgery for World Cup captaincy

Penrith Panthers lock Isaah Yeo has received permission from his club to delay pectoral surgery in order to captain Australia at the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.

Yeo sustained the injury during a recent match against the Warriors. While surgery is expected, the timing will depend on how the injury responds to rehabilitation. Delaying the procedure to participate in the World Cup—which begins 11 days after the NRL Grand Final—could postpone his return to pre-season training with the Panthers by more than a month.

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary expressed support for the decision, stating that the club backs its players in representative football. Cleary noted that the club is not concerned about Yeo causing further damage during the tournament, as managing pain and physical function are the primary concerns.