LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Speculation surrounding Kalyn Ponga's potential departure from the Newcastle Knights has gained traction following a photo of the Knights captain engaging in conversation with Andrew McFadden, the recruitment head for the New Zealand Warriors, in Auckland.
This photograph, initially reported by the Daily Telegraph, was captured at the Full Time Sports Bar and Eatery, a venue owned by the Warriors, during the weekend.
The image of Ponga interacting with McFadden has sparked renewed rumors that the 2023 Dally M Medal winner might be contemplating a move to the Warriors.
During a segment on Triple M, journalist Michael Chammas commented that while the encounter appeared incidental, it suggests that the prominent fullback is "exploring other options."
"I find it interesting he's in New Zealand because there's talk about him going to play New Zealand rugby," Chammas noted. "I think it's just a coincidence, but I don't know. How long have I been going on about Kalyn Ponga wanting to leave Newcastle for? He's been too afraid to take the jump."