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‘I’d hate to see him ruled out’: Ponga facing nervous World Cup wait
Sport Nation • October 5th, 2026 10:20 am
Kalyn Ponga | Photo: Dan Himbrechts/Photosport
Former Warrior and Sport Nation host Blake Ayshford has described Kalyn Ponga as one of rugby league’s best players after his recent form, but fears the Newcastle star could miss the opening Rugby League World Cup clash.
With the tournament kicking off on October 15 and selections still to be confirmed, Ayshford reflected on Sunday’s NRL grand final, where Ponga and New Zealand forward Naufahu Whyte impressed.
“James Tedesco got the Clive Churchill medal, the next two best players on the field last night were two players lining up in Kiwis jerseys in a couple of weeks time, in Naufahu Whyte and Kalyn Ponga,” he told Sport Nation's Scotty & Izzy.
But Ayshford is concerned about Kiwis fullback’s availability after he was placed on report for a high tackle on Roosters Victor Radley.
The incident is set for a post-match review, which could result in a fine and/or suspension.
“If we're going off calls and head highs that have been called this year, there was force, it was to the head, but he was on the way down, Victor Radley.”
Ayshford said he would hate to see Ponga ruled out of what he expects to be one of the tournament’s biggest match-ups.
“So for me, I'd hate to see him ruled out because that's going to be one of the biggest clashes in the world cup or the biggest clash.
“It's a preview of what I believe will probably be the final, Australia, New Zealand," he explained.
“In my eyes, in the last month and a half of footy, has been the best player in rugby league.”
Ayshford acknowledged Nathan Cleary’s Dally M win, but said Ponga’s recent performances had made him one of the game’s standout players.
“I know Nathan Cleary got the Dally M, but that's a season award, but over the last month and half, I think a fully fit Kalyn Ponga is one of the best players in the game.”
Listen to the full interview below:
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