Sports · Other Sports · 2 hrs ago
Kalyn Ponga could return for New Zealand 22 days after breaking his arm
Kalyn Ponga could return for New Zealand just 22 days after breaking his left arm.
He was named on the extended bench for Saturday’s World Cup semifinal against Tonga in Newcastle.
Ponga played through the injury for more than 20 minutes in New Zealand’s opening 24-22 loss to Australia, then had surgery in the hope of returning for the finals.
He must pass fitness tests this week before he can be cleared to play.
Teammate Phoenix Crossland is also on the extended bench after completing a four-game suspension.
A return by either player could strengthen New Zealand for the knockout match, but their final selection depends on whether they are fit to take the field.
Kalyn Ponga is in line to return for New Zealand against Tonga just 22 days after breaking his left arm.
He must pass fitness tests during the week to be cleared to play.
Ponga and Phoenix Crossland have been named on New Zealand’s extended bench for Saturday night’s World Cup semifinal.
Ponga broke his arm during New Zealand’s tournament-opening 24-22 loss to Australia and later underwent surgery.
Teammate Dane Gagai said he would welcome Ponga’s return but that the decision depends on whether he passes the required checks.
- Who
- Kalyn Ponga, the New Zealand rugby league player.
- What
- He could return to play against Tonga after breaking his left arm. He must pass fitness tests to be cleared.
- When
- Saturday night, 22 days after he broke his arm. The article does not give the calendar date of the match.
- Where
- McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.
- Why
- New Zealand will need its strongest possible line-up against Tonga, and Ponga hopes to return for the finals.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Ponga played for more than 20 minutes with a broken arm during New Zealand’s 24-22 loss to Australia.
Ponga underwent surgery in the hope of returning for the finals.
Ponga and Phoenix Crossland were named on New Zealand’s extended bench for the match against Tonga.
Ponga must pass fitness tests to be cleared to play.
New Zealand are scheduled to face Tonga in a semifinal at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.
- Injury
- Broken left arm
- Potential return
- 22 days after breaking his arm
- Fitness clearance
- Must pass tests during the week
- Extended bench
- Kalyn Ponga and Phoenix Crossland
- Match
- New Zealand vs Tonga, World Cup semifinal
- Venue
- McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle
What people are saying
That'll just come down to the boxes he'll have to tick with the physios and stuff, but one thing that's never in question is Kalyn's toughness, and I don't think he gets enough credit or praise for it.
He won't put himself before the team, but we'd obviously love to have him out there.