LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Kalyn Ponga caused a stir in Queensland's State of Origin camp after he was seen sitting out of a training session on Wednesday afternoon.
The Maroons fullback reassured fans that he feels ready for Game 1 at Suncorp Stadium next Wednesday, despite appearing to have a quad issue, which he discussed with teammate Lindsay Collins.
Initial reports indicated that he did not join the team for the first 10 minutes of the media-accessible training session, but Queensland officials have downplayed the severity of the situation, promising an update on his condition on Thursday.
Ponga was chosen to replace the injured Reece Walsh and is set to start at fullback for the first time since the 2022 Origin decider, where he was named man of the match.
He is eager to hold onto the No.1 jersey and indicated his determination with his comments, saying, "I'm definitely keen to keep it.
I want to do my job and put together some performances I'm proud of, for sure." He added, "You have to earn this jersey, and that's what I'll be doing for sure." Despite the competitive nature of their positions, Ponga praised Walsh, stating, "I actually really enjoy watching Reece play and I love him as a person.
The competition isn't negative at all, I actually think it's good for both of us.
The beauty of the Queensland culture is you support each other 100 per cent."
Although Ponga sat out of the training session, he was observed discussing strategies with Maroons coach Billy Slater, who is considered one of the best fullbacks in the history of the sport.
Ponga expressed his admiration for Slater's approach, saying, "It's his attention to detail on both sides of the footy, but also the confidence he instils in his players." He noted that Slater provided him with insights that enhanced his technical understanding of the game and helped build his confidence as a player.
Overall, while concerns about Ponga's fitness were raised, both he and the Queensland camp appear optimistic and focused on the upcoming game.