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Dane Gagai. Newcastle Knights player evades Penrith Panthers defender during rugby league match

Dane Gagai cleared for Knights preliminary final against Panthers

Newcastle's Dane Gagai has been cleared to play in the preliminary final against Penrith on September 27.

Newcastle centre Dane Gagai was put on report late in the Knights' 12-10 win over the Warriors but faced no charges from the NRL judiciary. The 35-year-old will be free to play in the preliminary final against minor premiers Penrith at Accor Stadium on September 27.

Gagai is poised to join the 338-game club, tying him with Chris Heighington and Jesse Bromwich. Gagai ranks ninth in Newcastle's all-time games record with 240 games for the club.

Gagai will leave for Brisbane next season.

35 years old: Gagai's age
338 (Heighington, Bromwich): NRL games tied
240: Newcastle games
September 27: Preliminary final date

Why it mattersGagai matters for Newcastle's chances as they chase a grand final spot.

AustraliaNewcastle Knights need a win to reach the NRL grand final this weekend.

✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 d ago

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✓ Newcastle HeraldSport & Play

Newcastle erupts for Knights as underdogs face Penrith

Over 1000 Newcastle supporters packed a training session as the Knights prepare to face Penrith in Sunday's NRL grand final.

Why it mattersNewcastle hasn't reached a grand final in 13 years. A win would deliver the city's first premiership since 1997 and snap Penrith's stranglehold on the competition.