Ponga's All Blacks dream over after star signs multi-million dollar NRL deal
Newcastle Knights have re-signed Kalyn Ponga for four seasons. The deal is believed to be worth around $4.4million, which will make Ponga one of the highest-paid players in the NRL and rules him out of any potential code switch and becoming available for the All Blacks.
The 22-year-old Queensland full-back was originally signed until the end of next year with an option for 2022 but he has opted to remain with the Knights as they chase their first premiership since 2001. “It's no secret I want to win a comp in Newcastle, I want to hold the trophy up here,” Ponga said.
“It's very exciting and a very proud moment for myself and my family. We're building towards something and I can definitely feel it. It's something that I want to be a part of and I'm excited to be a part of.”
The contract puts to bed speculation Ponga was eyeing a code switch to rugby union in time for the 2023 World Cup. Ponga qualifies to play for New Zealand and has previously spoken about his respect for the All Blacks, but on Tuesday he reiterated his love for Newcastle and a desire to bring success to the area.
After Canberra made the NRL decider last year, the Knights now have the longest grand final drought in the game - their last appearance was with the Andrew Johns-led 2001 premiership team.
Under new coach Adam O'Brien and on the back of Ponga's long-term deal with the club, it's hoped the Knights can achieve long-awaited success. Andre Ponga, Kalyn's father, helped negotiate the deal with the Knights, but it was never about the money.
"For us as a family, it's never been about the car in the garage or the brand of T-shirt that you are wearing or the expensive steak at dinner," Kalyn said. “It's always been about where you are, who you are with and the memories that you can make.
"I've been very fortunate that my mum and dad have been there for me this whole journey even when times were tough really early on.”
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Dear Ben Smith you are a genius! God please become the next all blacks coach that can take on the mighty BOKS. Your rugby acumen is second to none - imagine your dads sperm bounced as unfortunately as that oval ball did….we would not be blessed with your presence. Just as the all blacks were missing a man you too are missing a chromosome for 80% of your life, so your insights are not only profound but ring true from your own experiences. Just as the TMO interfered with citing an illegal pass I am sure your local authorities interfere with your illegal passes you make on women - How dare they!!! God forbid that rugby be officiated fairly. You are the right man for the job. Next all blacks coach is here ladies and gentlemen Miss Ben Smith (He/She/They/IT)
Go to commentsHuge engine this guy and great to see him back ..The amount of clean outs he does at the ruck are ridiculous !!
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