Kalyn Ponga ruled out of State of Origin

Newcastle Knights and Queensland fullback Kalyn Ponga has been ruled out of this year’s State of Origin series due to a shoulder injury.

The 22-year-old will undergo surgery on the problem next week after consultation with several medical professionals.

Ponga had been expected to start for the Maroons in this Autumn’s series, but is now expected to be replaced in the no.1 jersey by Gold Coast youngster AJ Brimson.

“I’m devastated to miss out on Origin,” Ponga told the Knights’ official club website. “I love pulling on the Maroons jersey. It is a privilege to play in the NRL and a privilege to be selected to represent Queensland.

“As an athlete and competitor, I pride myself on performing no matter how my body feels but I also accept that both the Maroons and Knights medical staff have my best interest at heart in making this decision.

“I wish the Queensland camp all the best for a successful 2020 series. I’ll be cheering loudly from home and will be working tirelessly to earn my place back in the squad next year.”