LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Kalyn Ponga's State of Origin career is in jeopardy following a reported meeting with International Rugby League (IRL) boss Troy Grant.
Despite scoring the match-winning try in Newcastle's recent victory over Manly, solidifying his position for the Maroons in Origin 2, Ponga's future is uncertain.
According to the Courier Mail, the meeting likely revolved around Ponga's potential switch from representing Australia to New Zealand.
Ponga, who played for Australia in the 2019 Rugby League World Cup 9s, has yet to participate in a Test match for the Kangaroos.
He has been reluctant to make a definitive choice that would exclude him from representing New Zealand, partly due to his Maori heritage.
The IRL recently modified its rules, allowing AJ Brimson to switch from Australia to England, as the World Cup 9s is no longer considered a valid factor for international allegiance.
Grant's leadership facilitated this change, enabling players who previously participated in the now-discontinued 9s event to pursue their international careers more freely.
Ponga's situation is precarious, with his performance on the field at odds with the evolving landscape of international rugby league eligibility.