The Knights have been given a huge boost with confirmation on a timeline for skipper Kalyn Ponga’s return from concussion symptoms after consultation with specialists.
Ponga was knocked out in the first minute of the Knights’ Round 2 win over the Tigers and has not played since after suffering multiple head knocks over the last 12 months.
“The Newcastle Knights, in conjunction with independent concussion consultants, have reviewed all available information and have approved for Kalyn Ponga to return to rugby league,” the Knights said in a statement.
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“Ponga recently flew to Vancouver, Canada for additional clinical and advanced neurophysiological assessment, with the results indicating the Knights co-captain is ready to resume his return to performance program.”
“We are comfortable with the objective evidence from our independent testing, indicating normalisation of his cognitive function,” Knights Director of Football Peter Parr said.
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“Kalyn has recovered well from his recent concussion, however he has had limited specific training due to the amount of travel he has had to undertake in recent weeks.
“We will now focus on building his physical and tactical performance, with an aim to return in Round 8 against the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville.”
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“The Knights wish to thank the many people who have shown care and support for Kalyn throughout this period, the statement continued.
“Kalyn will speak to club members and media, in the near future about his return to play.”
