New Zealand name Ponga for Tonga semi

Rugby League World Cup 2026, Semi-final team lists: Kevin Walters picks Reece Walsh ahead of James Tedesco, Australia Kangaroos team, Kalyn Ponga return

Kalyn Ponga is listed in New Zealand's squad as a possible returnee for its Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Tonga.

New Zealand's players, in listed order, are Keano Kini, Jamayne Isaako, Dane Gagai, Casey McLean, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and Kodi Nikorima.

The squad continues with Jahrome Hughes, James Fisher-Harris (captain), Jeremy Marshall-King, Moses Leota, Isaiah Papali'i and Briton Nikora.

It also includes Joseph Tapine, Te Maire Martin, Naufahu Whyte, Erin Clark, Xavier Willison and Scott Sorensen.

The remaining New Zealand squad members are Leo Thompson, Tanner Stowers-Smith, Ponga and Phoenix Crossland.

Tonga's listed squad begins with Lehi Hopoate, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Tolutau Koula, Robert Toia, Jojo Fifita and Tuimoala Lolohea.

Also named are Isaiya Katoa, Addin Fonua-Blake, Salesi Foketi, Jason Taumalolo (captain), Haumole Olakau'atu and Siua Wong.

Tonga's squad is completed by Tyson Frizell, Soni Luke, Stefano Utoikamanu, Demitric Vaimauga, Taniela Paseka and Leka Halasima.

The final four listed players are Latu Fainu, Paul Alamoti, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki and Sione Katoa.

Kevin Walters has made selection calls for Australia's semi-final against Samoa and named the Kangaroos side, though its players are not included in the available team lists.

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