Panthers v Dolphins: Cleary set to return; Aitken injury blow

The Panthers' quest for a remarkable fourth straight premiership goes up a notch this week as they welcome back champion halfback Nathan Cleary for the run to the wire.

Cleary has played just five matches this season, the last of those in Round 10, when he suffered a hamstring injury against the Bulldogs.

The Panthers have won four and lost three in Cleary's absence but remain inside the top four and poised to strike with only of their remaining eight games against a current top-four side - the Storm in Round 24.

The Dolphins, meanwhile, have already racked up nine wins in their second season and look to have a realistic shot at a maiden finals berth. although the loss of Euan Aitken to a pectoral injury is a blow.

Provided Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Felise Kaufusi come through Origin Three unscathed they should be back on deck for this litmus test of their credentials in front of a hostile Panthers crowd.