For James Maloney, It’s a case of deja vu going to black from blue.
Maloney has all but confirmed his move to Penrith next NRL season, completing the player-swap that included Matt Moylan switching to Cronulla announced last week.
The Panthers are expected to officially announce the three-year deal worth a reported $2.5 million this week, however Maloney wasted no time in talking up his latest challenge.
Penrith will be Maloney’s fifth club in 10 years, including a two-year stint at the Sharks where he helped lead them to a maiden premiership in his first season.
Maloney, who scored a try and set up two more in the Kangaroos’ 34-0 Rugby League World Cup win over Lebanon, says he sees the same potential at the foot of the mountains.
“The roster and that reminds me a lot of the reasons I went to play for Cronulla,” Maloney said.
“A really good solid forward pack to play behind and quite a bit of experience and some really exciting backs and young kids coming through.
“So it is exciting. It’s a new challenge and that keeps you on your toes.”
The 31-year-old paid special mention to new halves partner Nathan Cleary, who has been touted for big things after an impressive first two seasons.
“I think he’s been tremendous since he’s come into the top grade,” Maloney said.
“I’m looking forward to partnering him and hopefully can help him in some way and have a bit of success out there.”
Maloney, who also won a premiership with the Sydney Roosters in 2013 and led the Warriors to a grand final in 2011, will be tasked with mentoring the 19-year-old halfback.
“I don’t know, he might teach me things, I’m not sure,” Maloney said.
“I suppose we’ll work that out once I get out there and spend some time and have a chat to him and find out how he looks at footy.
“That’s a challenge of coming into a new side, is to get to know the guys who are there and how they like to play and fitting in around that.”