Ponga’s Season in Jeopardy After Lisfranc Injury

The Newcastle Knights are reeling as star fullback Kalyn Ponga faces a potential season-ending Lisfranc injury, sidelining him from the upcoming State of Origin decider. This setback leaves both the Knights and Queensland Maroons scrambling for solutions.

Injury Details and Immediate Impact

During the Knights’ Friday night loss to the Canberra Raiders, Ponga was forced off the field after a tackle. Following scans Saturday morning, the Lisfranc injury diagnosis was confirmed. This injury could also prevent him from playing in the remainder of the NRL season.

Ponga previously experienced a similar injury to his right foot last year, causing him to miss eight games. The Knights have eight regular season matches left. Billy Slater, the Queensland coach, will now have to name a replacement for the State of Origin match on July 9 at Accor Stadium.

Potential Replacements and Team Reactions

Slater is considering options like recalling Reece Walsh from the Brisbane Broncos or shifting Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow from the wing to fullback. The Knights’ coach, Adam O’Brien, stated that it’s too soon to determine the extent of Ponga’s recovery.

“He’s tough. He doesn’t come off for just about anything,”

—Adam O’Brien, Knights Coach

In the same match, Dane Gagai moved from center to fullback. The team is accustomed to overcoming adversity. A recent study showed that Lisfranc injuries can sideline athletes for an average of 18 weeks (Source: NCBI, 2024).

Knights’ Challenges and Future Prospects

Fletcher Sharpe is also sidelined, recovering from a kidney and spleen injury. Dane Gagai or Fletcher Hunt could fill the fullback position for the upcoming game against Melbourne. The Knights have a bye next weekend.

Forward Tyson Frizell mentioned how the team is used to adjusting after Ponga’s exit. O’Brien indicated that the extent of Ponga’s injury will be worked out during the bye week.