The following statement is being presented on behalf of Kalyn Ponga and the Ponga family.
It is with great disappointment that Kalyn Ponga will be unavailable to represent Queensland in the 2020 State of Origin series.
In consultation with the Maroons State of Origin and Newcastle Knights medical teams, it has determined that Kalyn has been medically ruled out from participating in this series due to a shoulder injury.
Having received a number of expert opinions on the injury, it has been determined Kalyn will have surgery next week.
Danny Buderus Medal 2020 highlights
“I’m devastated to miss out on Origin,” Ponga said.
“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.”
The Ponga family would like to thank the Knights for giving Kalyn every opportunity to try to represent Queensland and appreciate the Maroons’ decision to rule medically rule him out.
The Ponga family also wishes to express their disappointment in suggestions that Kalyn would be unavailable for Origin as a result of frustrations caused by living within the NRL bubble.
WATCH: Kalyn Ponga your 2020 Danny Buderus medal winner
Witnessing the sacrifice of the Warriors players and their families in order to keep the season going, was nothing short of inspired and selfless.
Many people have made sacrifices throughout this trying period for the game and that commitment has not been lost on Kalyn or the family.
Kalyn will be available for Knights selection come the start of the 2021 season.
