LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Kalyn Ponga has made a strong case for reclaiming his State of Origin jersey from Reece Walsh with his exceptional performances in the opening rounds of the 2025 season.
Ponga's impressive display against the Dolphins, where he contributed three try-assists, five tackle breaks, and ran for 202 metres, has left many in awe.
With back-to-back man-of-the-match performances, Ponga is currently leading the Dally M voting and is proving to be a key player for the Knights this season.
Andrew Voss even went as far as to suggest that Ponga may be the best player in the competition at the moment.
Ponga's ability to stay injury-free and consistently deliver on the field makes him a formidable force, with the potential to influence the outcome of games for his team.
His form has sparked speculation that Maroons coach Billy Slater may have a tough decision to make when it comes to choosing between Ponga and Walsh for the No.1 jersey in the upcoming Origin series.
Walsh, who took over the fullback position from Ponga in 2023 and had a successful series, will likely face stiff competition for his spot from the determined Knights fullback.
Despite missing out on selection last year, Ponga remains focused on proving his worth and helping the Knights achieve success in 2025.
While acknowledging Walsh's contributions for the Maroons, Ponga's exceptional form and potential impact on the game cannot be ignored.
The battle between Ponga and Walsh for the coveted Queensland fullback position is shaping up to be one of the key storylines of the upcoming Origin series.
Ponga's determination to excel and his ability to deliver match-winning performances make him a strong contender for the Queensland jersey, putting pressure on Slater to make a difficult decision.
As Ponga continues to shine on the field, it is clear that he is determined to reclaim his spot in the Maroons lineup and make a significant impact on the Origin stage.