Star nib Newcastle Knights fullback Kalyn Ponga has spoken out for the first time about his recent injury and his disappointment at missing State of Origin III.
The 20-year-old playmaker has been sidelined for three to four weeks after he suffered a grade one hamstring injury in the Knights loss to the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs last week.
Ponga told HIT 106.9's Nick, Jess and Simon the injury is just bad timing.
"Obviously bad with Origin next week which sucks, but it's one of those injuries where you can't rush back," Ponga said.
"If you rush back, you could do it again and you'll be out for another three to four weeks.
"The Club is good, they don't want me to miss more games."
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But the young fullback is optimistic about his return, with hope of only missing one game for the red and blues.
"I'll miss Parra (Eels) and hopefully be back for Titans," Ponga added.
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Physical Performance Manager Tony Ayoub agreed it's an unfortunate injury for Ponga, who has been wowing crowds with his creative flare and causing plenty of pain for opposing teams so far this season.
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He's confident with his mindset, Ponga will be back out on the field in no time.
"He's had regular treatment, he's worked pretty hard and he's improved," commented Ayoub.
"Hopefully it's only going to be a three-week thing, we'll just play it by ear and see how he goes over the next few days and week."
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