Ponga Bombshell Rocks Maroons: Star Out of Origin Decider, Walsh Set for Stunning Return
Kalyn Ponga’s State of Origin campaign has come to a heartbreaking halt, delivering a major blow to Queensland’s hopes ahead of the series decider. The Newcastle Knights captain suffered a suspected Lisfranc injury during his side’s 22-18 defeat to the Canberra Raiders on Friday night at McDonald Jones Stadium. Ponga exited the field in the 60th minute, visibly distressed, and was later seen wearing a moon boot — an ominous sign for both the Knights and Maroons faithful.
He is set to undergo scans over the weekend to determine the full extent of the damage. Early fears suggest a Lisfranc injury, which could rule him out for the remainder of the NRL season. Even in a more optimistic scenario where the injury is diagnosed as a midfoot sprain, Ponga is expected to miss between two to six weeks — eliminating any chance of a return for the all-important Origin decider in just over a week.
The loss of Ponga, a key attacking weapon and reliable presence at fullback, forces Queensland coach Billy Slater into a crucial reshuffle. However, it also presents an opportunity for Brisbane Broncos star Reece Walsh to make his return to the Origin arena. Walsh, who was unavailable for Game II due to suspension, is set to take the field against the Warriors on Saturday. A strong performance could all but guarantee his selection.
As Slater plots his strategy for the winner-takes-all clash, all eyes will be on Walsh to step up and potentially fill the void left by Ponga’s untimely injury.
