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'Tears in their eyes': Ponga proud to represent family
Annabelle Banfield, AAP • October 10th, 2026 7:40 am
Kalyn Ponga | Photo: AAP
Kalyn Ponga was overcome with gratitude, suiting up as a Kiwi after international eligibility changes allowed the star fullback to experience the Test arena for the first time with his nation of choice.
The gun No. 1 has had a phenomenal 2026, captaining Newcastle to the NRL grand final and representing Queensland in State of Origin, but he says the upcoming World Cup is the pinnacle of the sport.
"I've never played at the international level," Ponga said at New Zealand's media day on Friday.
"Obviously it's the pinnacle of rugby league, and to do that now, I feel like the time is right in terms of my career.
"As I got older, my sister probably influencing me, my family influencing me, but the connection to my culture has only got stronger and it definitely feels right now."
The ARLC overhauled State of Origin eligibility rules in February, allowing players to represent any nation and also remain eligible for NSW or Queensland.
"I thought it was the right decision. I think the game's only getting bigger, and to strengthen both stages, the Origin arena and international," Ponga said.
"I was just grateful that I can actually have this opportunity and represent my people. It's going to be a proud moment."
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Ponga has previously suited up for the Maori All-Stars, but can now also play for his Kiwi heritage - a proud moment for the entire family.
"I'm excited about this whole experience, but to go out there and represent where I'm from, my family, my culture, and the country is pretty special," Ponga said.
"I know my family will probably have tears in their eyes. Obviously doing the haka and everything before the game, we'll be proud."
The 28-year-old admits it would have been a different black jersey he was dreaming of as a young boy living in Palmerston, New Zealand
"Back in the day it was more the All Blacks, but this (jersey) is just as special," Ponga said, proudly sporting the Kiwis' match strip.
The new Kiwi has 13 caps for Queensland, and has represented the Junior Kangaroos and the Australian team at the only edition of the Rugby League 9s World Cup in 2019, but could never quite break into the senior Australian Test team.
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Lining up against the Aussies in the first game of the tournament is a highly anticipated moment for the New Zealand squad.
"Going up against Australia's going to be special," Ponga said.
A potential fullback showdown against James Tedesco might feel like deja vu after the pair faced off in the NRL grand final, which finished in a gutting one-point loss for Ponga and his Knights.
The Newcastle captain has had to bounce back quickly from that disappointment as he gears up for the World Cup.
"I think that's rugby league, you know," Ponga said of the quick turn-around.
"You're constantly chasing what's ahead of you. You don't really have much time to reflect and sort of sit and stagnate for too long, you're on to the next goal."
