Newcastle Knights set to lose Mitchell Barnett to NRL rivals

Newcastle Knights are set to lose star forward Mitchell Barnett to NRL rivals.

That’s according to The Mole at the World Wide of Sports after claims that the fiery forward, who is currently serving a six-game ban for a horror hit on Melbourne Storm’s Chris Lewis, will be signing for the New Zealand Warriors for 2023 and beyond.

The 28-year-old is said to be keen on a move and wants a change of scenery following over 100 games with the Knights.

Meanwhile, Kalyn Ponga has responded to the rumours circulating about his future, telling NRL.com that he’s going to patient where his future is concerned.

He said: “I know what I’m feeling, but that is between me and my management.

“I know you guys want to know what I am doing, and I respect you, but I hope you guys respect that I want to make this decision on my terms and announce it on my terms. So that’s what I will do.”

His coach Adam O’Brien also played down the rumours: “When I had breakfast this morning we were signing [Cameron] Munster. I can’t keep up with you guys. It has never been brought up to me once as the head coach.

“I think they’re still going through their process – both Kalyn’s management and the Knights. Things are tracking along there.

“I think he showed tonight why he is worth the wait. I think his performance tonight showed how committed he is to this team.  I thought he was by far the best player on the field.”