New twist in Kalyn Ponga saga as NRL issues appeal over Newcastle star as New Zealand’s ‘secret plan’ to smuggle fullback out of Australia comes to light

The NRL has given Kalyn Ponga a deadline to provide clarity on whether he will be available for selection for Australia’s upcoming Tests against Tonga and New Zealand.

The Newcastle fullback’s surprise decision to rule himself out of the Kangaroos’ upcoming matches so he could focus on preparing for the 2025 NRL season has been met with criticism.

It also comes after a report from the Sydney Morning Herald claimed New Zealand had made a “secret attempt” to sign the NRL’s highest-paid player, who was due to make his debut for the Kangaroos in October.

Should Ponga choose to play for the Kiwis, his hopes of representing the Maroons at next year’s State of Origin would appear to be dashed, as players representing top-flight nations such as England and New Zealand are not allowed to take part in the three-match series.

Amid uncertainty over the 26-year-old’s decision, Daily Telegraph has revealed that Ponga has been given a deadline of 4pm on Thursday 26 September to make his position clear on international representation.

The outlet also claims that both Newcastle and representatives from the fullback’s camp spent ‘hours in discussions on Thursday’ over his international allegiances.

The fullback had also ruled himself out of the 2023 State of Origin squad due to concussion. But in a statement released earlier this week, the NRL star insisted his focus was on ‘winning a competition’ with Newcastle.

After releasing his statement, he received public support from the Knights, who wrote in a press release: “[The club] supports the decision Kalyn has made and will respect his request not to comment further on this matter.’

The NRL has given Kalyn Ponga a deadline of 4pm on Thursday 26 September to make his position on Australia’s selection clear

The decision could scupper his potential selection for next year’s State of Origin series

If Newcastle decide not to play for the Kangaroos, it could lead to sanctions, as NRL rules state that players must ensure they are eligible to play for the national team unless they are injured.

Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga has since spoken publicly about his disappointment with Ponga’s decision.

“Playing for the Kangaroos is the pinnacle of the game in this country,” Meninga said in a statement.

‘I was disappointed not only that Kalyn decided he was not available for the Kangaroos, but also with the process that led to that decision and announcement.

“I have since spoken to Kalyn and while I understand his intentions, that does not take away my disappointment in his decision.”

Earlier today, Meninga also explained that he thought Ponga’s decision to fully commit was “fair”, but that being “tired or exhausted” is no excuse not to make yourself available for an international call-up.

“Through the licensing agreements, each club must make its players available for representative duties, unless they are injured or there is another reason,” said Meninga.

His decision was a disappointment to Australia coach Mal Meninga (pictured), who said fatigue was no excuse for rejecting selection.

It also comes after a report from the Sydney Morning Herald claimed New Zealand had made a ‘secret attempt’ to land the NRL’s highest-paid player

“Those are the facts. It’s not about being too tired or fatigued.

“I am very aware that all players are giving their bodies and minds a tough year.

“There is no player who does not suffer from an injury, no player who does not need rehabilitation to overcome the difficult times of the past year.

“So it’s not an excuse. If you’re fit and healthy to play rep footy then you should make yourself available.”