Ponga‘s Recovery and Future at Newcastle Knights

That became less of a priority as Newcastle fizzled out in the finals race, ultimately finishing with the wooden spoon.

By comparison, when Ponga suffered a similar Lisfranc injury to his right foot in 2024, he was back playing within three months and helped the Knights reach the play-offs.

Now, Newcastle officials are taking what they have described as an “ultra-conservative” approach with their marquee man, for whom 2026 is shaping as a significant season.

As well as facing a battle with Brisbane dynamo Reece Walsh for the Queensland No.1 jersey, ponga is also pondering a switch in allegiance to represent New Zealand at the World cup. Meanwhile, with two seasons left on his lucrative Newcastle contract, he could become a free agent on November 1 and start negotiating with rival clubs.

Admitting “I’ve spent a lot of time on the sidelines over the last couple of years”, Ponga is impatiently awaiting the green light to resume full training.

“I think everyone can feel the energy,” he said.

“new faces, both in the staff and players. That brings so much excitement, and I’m just excited to get back on the paddock with all the boys and rip in and hopefully bring some good times next year for all our fans.”