LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Kalyn Ponga has been ruled out of the State of Origin decider due to a confirmed Lisfranc injury, as reported by Newcastle.
This injury was sustained during the Knights' loss to Canberra.
The club indicated that Ponga will face a lengthy recovery period, which complicates Queensland's plans for the crucial match.
Ponga's absence may provide an opportunity for Reece Walsh to reclaim the Queensland fullback position following his resurgence with Brisbane.
Alternatively, Queensland could consider moving Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow to fullback.
However, this transition poses challenges because back-up centre Jack Howarth is sidelined with appendicitis and Selwyn Cobbo has been dropped by Brisbane.
Ponga's injury is particularly detrimental to the Maroons, especially after their game-two victory in Perth, where coach Billy Slater aimed to maintain team continuity for the upcoming decider in Sydney.