LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Newcastle Knights have thrown a curveball by announcing that Kalyn Ponga will not be putting on the green and gold for the Australian Kangaroos in the upcoming Pacific Championships.
This unexpected move has left fans scratching their heads and wondering what the future holds for the talented fullback.
This isn't the first time Ponga has opted out of representing his country, as he also declined the opportunity last year.
Many were hopeful that his impressive performances in State of Origin and his knack for turning a game around would secure him a spot in Mal Meninga's squad this time around.
However, Ponga has made it clear that he has other priorities, choosing to focus on the upcoming season with the Knights.
In a statement from the club, Ponga expressed his desire to bring a premiership to Newcastle, stating that anything less would be considered a failure in his eyes.
It seems that the young star is committed to putting in the hard yards and leading his team to glory, rather than chasing individual accolades on the international stage.
Only time will tell if this gamble pays off for Ponga and the Knights.