Kalyn Ponga has ruled himself out of contention for the Rugby League World Cup as Newcastle opted neither to sanction him nor Kurt Mann over their toilet cubicle incident.
Specialists were expected to clear Ponga for the Kangaroos’ season-ending Test matches after concussions prematurely ended his NRL season. The Knights playmaker has spent weeks agonising over whether to make himself available for the national team or take an extended break after suffering a series of head knocks.
Australian coach Mal Meninga told the Herald last month he was prepared to consider Ponga if he was able to prove his fitness for the upcoming Prime Minister’s XIII game against PNG at Suncorp Stadium. However, the Maroons ace has opted to focus on being fully fit for the Knights’ 2023 campaign.
“I understand the potential opportunities that may be missed by this decision, however due to the year we have endured, I really want to commit on the upcoming preseason,” Ponga said.
“My focus will sit firmly with nailing pre-season from the start, and I believe this decision is in the best interest for myself and the Knights.”
The NRL opted not to sanction Ponga or teammate Mann after the pair were filmed leaving a toilet cubicle together.
Kalyn Ponga won’t play in the World Cup.Credit:Getty
The determination came after the pair were made to provide samples to drug testers employed by the NRL, a move that angered the players’ union.
The Knights had the option of imposing sanctions of their own on the playmakers, but were led by the decision of head office and ultimately decided against a punishment.
