Kalyn Ponga has been ruled out of the most anticipated State of Origin decider. He later underwent surgery on a severe foot injury sustained in the Newcastle Knights’ 22-18 defeat at the hands of fellow strugglers Canberra Raiders. Valai seen in this news provides a huge set back to Maroons. This puts an awful lot on Ponga’s young shoulders when it comes to the make-or-break encounter next week.
Ponga limped off the field during the second half of the game, drawing immediate concern from fans and teammates alike. Local reports out of Newcastle suggest that the injury is to the opposite foot from last year’s lisfranc injury. This chicks the worry about a possible long-term rehab time for the all-star, electric scored just 13 goals and 14 assists.
“Kalyn’s tough. He doesn’t come off for much,” said Knights coach Adam O’Brien, emphasizing Ponga’s resilience. He added, “You have to drag him off the field with a tow truck normally, so it’s probably not a good sign,” indicating the severity of the situation.
The 24-year-old first pulled on Queensland’s No.1 jersey in 2019. Since then, he has suited up for only eight games for the Maroons, illuminating his absence that much further. His injury opens the door for Reece Walsh to reclaim the Queensland fullback position. Fletcher Hunt is a strong candidate to go in at Ponga’s pivot position. If that is not the case, it is possible that Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow may even shift to fullback.
It’s been a punishing season for Ponga. In February of this year, he was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, including a lacerated kidney and spleen rupture. His ongoing injury situation reminds of his recent past with the Knights when he missed seven games. This would risk leaving him out on the bench until right before the finals.
Ponga’s absence is a real stab to the heart of the Queensland squad. That presents a huge opportunity and challenge for Newcastle and Coach O’Brien. The team has already faced challenges this season, including injuries to backup players like Fletcher Sharpe, who is unlikely to return this year.
