NRL news 2024 | Kangaroos squad selection; Kalyn Ponga withdraws from fullback race; Newcastle Knights statement

Kangaroos legend Bob McCarthy says a “red line” should be put through Kalyn Ponga’s name for future Kangaroos matches after the Knights fullback withdrew from the Australian team.

In a statement on the Knights website, Ponga explained his sole focus is on preparing for the 2025 season and propelling Newcastle into a premiership contender.

“I want to win a comp, for me anything short of that, isn’t success,” Ponga said.

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“My focus has never shifted from wanting to win a premiership with the Knights, that has been my goal since I joined the club in 2018 and continues to be my focus.”

It’s understood coach Mal Meninga is filthy over the decision and former Kangaroos captain and chairman of selectors McCarthy, called for the fullback to never be considered for selection again.

“I’d be putting the red line through his name,” McCarthy told The Sydney Morning Herald. “You don’t knock back the Australian jersey. I can’t see his reckoning there. It’s the ultimate reward, playing for your country.

“Origin is good, but the green and gold is something different. That’s what Mal has been trying to instil into everyone – he’s recognising those who dug the well and wants to keep that spirit going.

“You’d think you’d be determined to get in there and make up for the big loss last year [to New Zealand]. The only reason I can think of is if he’s been told he won’t make it, and he’s tried to get in first. It’s disappointing to hear.”

Another Kangaroos legend, Wally Lewis, told the publication: “Each player is entitled to their own decision. Kalyn has had a wonderful year, but if I was in the same position, I wouldn’t be making the same choice – representing your country is the greatest honour you will ever have in your sporting career.

“I know all the blokes I had the thrill of playing international football with would give their left arm to play.

“There are periods for every footballer when they are in retirement and look back and think, ‘Did I make the right decision there?’ I can’t speak on his behalf, but I know I wouldn’t make a similar choice.”

It’s a blow for Meninga, who will be desperate to extract revenge for last year after the Kiwis blew them off the park in the final.

As the season winds down, the selection battle was heating up for the Kangaroos with James Tedesco and Ponga in the running while there are suggestions Dylan Edwards won’t be available due to injury.

Tom Trbojevic also battled a shoulder injury during the finals series.

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“When I’m done, I want to look back at my career with a positive reflection, including people saying he was a great signing and represented our community to the best of his ability,” Ponga said in his statement.

“For now, I don’t feel like I have earnt that yet, that’s why I have made this decision and will work hard every day to chase those goals.”

Ponga played off the bench in State of Origin III but has yet to represent the Kangaroos in the Test arena.