Kalyn Ponga has performed a stunning backflip that could result in him being called up for the Kangaroos and avoiding sanction for initially making himself unavailable.
Ponga intended to prioritise a Newcastle pre-season over the upcoming Pacific Championships, sparking a huge backlash and opening himself up to a sanction that would have set a new precedent for the game. Every player’s contract states they must make themselves available for representative selection and Ponga’s initial stance put him on a collision course with head office.
Kalyn Ponga.Credit: Getty Images
However, the prospect of being forced to sit out NRL games – a penalty that would have cruelled Ponga’ stated ambition of winning a premiership with the Knights – prompted a rethink.
“The nib Newcastle Knights would like to respond to recent communications regarding Captain Kalyn Ponga eligibility for international selection for the Australian Kangaroos, specifically the Pacific Championships in October 2024,” the Knights said in a statement. “The Newcastle Knights and Club Captain Kalyn Ponga understands his responsibilities under his NRL playing contract, NRL rules and the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
“Both parties commit to fulfilling all obligations, including availability to play representative football, subject to the standard health, fitness, and mental readiness.”
Newcastle had previously released a statement outlining Ponga’s unavailability at 2:30pm on Tuesday, just three days after the Dally M medallist told SEN radio that he was fit and willing to make his Kangaroos debut. Adding further intrigue to the situation, the Newcastle captain has previously stated his desire to represent the All Blacks, while the Kiwis tried to unsuccessfully pick him last year.
Australian coach Mal Meninga and ARLC chairman Peter V’landys expressed their disappointment when Ponga initially revealed his international boycott. Whether Meninga decides to pick the superstar fullback following the latest development remains to be seen.
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