NRL superstar Kalyn Ponga eyes up sensational rugby union switch

Newcastle Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga could be about to walk out on the NRL later this year, with a sensational cross-code switch looming after he was hawked around New Zealand’s Pacific Super Rugby franchises.

Ponga, 27, has reportedly asked a leading New Zealand rugby union agent to find him a club, despite being contracted to the Knights until 2027, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

The former North Queensland Cowboys full-back, who earns A$1.4 million a season (£680,000), is said to be unwilling to waste the prime years of his career with the Knights, who are 13th in the 17-team NRL ladder.

Super Rugby players who would thrive in the NRL | The Breakdown

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His camp is reportedly ready to request his release at the end of the season if a suitable offer across the Tasman Sea can be found, and the Knights appear willing to listen.

The club is keen to accommodate highly rated youngster Fletcher Sharpe in his preferred position at full-back and make a significant 12 per cent saving on their salary cap by releasing one of their highest earners.

It would be another body blow to the Knights, who are also preparing to sack coach Adam O’Brien — like Ponga, under contract until 2027 — after six years in charge.

Ponga, who rejected offers from the AFL and Super League to join the Cowboys, has long made his admiration for the All Blacks clear, saying in a 2018 television interview:

“I think it’s [the All Blacks] the pinnacle. Well, they are. They’re the best sporting organisation in the world … so to put that jersey on would be pretty special.”

When the Queensland State of Origin star joined the Knights in 2018, his contract included a release clause that would have allowed him to walk away to pursue a cross-code switch.

That clause was removed when he signed a lucrative extension — but it now appears to be back on the table, with the hook baited and his team waiting to see who bites.