Momentum Grows Around NRL Star Kalyn Ponga Completing A Rugby Union Switch
Momentum Grows Around NRL Star Kalyn Ponga Completing A Rugby Union Switch
Kalyn Ponga eyes an early NRL exit to pursue a rugby union switch, as European clubs show interest, and the Newcastle Knights face major off-field turmoil.
Kalyn Ponga could be set for a shock code switch, as the Newcastle Knights fullback reportedly explores an early exit from his NRL contract to pursue a career in rugby union.
Ponga, 27, is said to have spoken with a New Zealand-based rugby union agent, fueling speculation that he may seek a release from the final two years of his Knights deal.
While no formal request has been submitted, the star playmaker is believed to be considering a move as early as the end of the 2025 season.
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The bombshell development comes on the same day news broke that Knights coach Adam O’Brien will be dumped at the end of the year, adding further instability to a struggling club that has failed to deliver consistent finals appearances since Ponga’s arrival in 2018.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Ponga fears he's "wasting his prime years" at Newcastle, while Code Sports reports he’s already attracting interest from major European rugby clubs in England and France.
Offers from overseas could reportedly exceed $2 million annually, well above his current $1.4 million salary in the NRL.
Ponga’s background in rugby union, including his standout performances for Churchie’s First XV and his New Zealand heritage, makes him a tantalizing prospect for clubs—and even the All Blacks. He previously expressed interest in representing New Zealand at the international level back in 2019.
His father, Andre Ponga, confirmed the overseas interest but said no decisions are imminent.
“Yes, there’s been some interest in Kalyn from rugby clubs overseas,” Andre said. “But it’s not a conversation we are worrying about right now.”
Ponga is in camp with Queensland ahead of Game 2 of the 2025 State of Origin series in Perth and remains focused on his NRL duties.
Despite the rugby noise, Ponga’s name has also been linked to the new Perth Bears NRL franchise, set to join the competition in 2027. A move there also would require an early release.
For now, Ponga remains contracted to Newcastle through the 2027 season, though the possibility of a switch either to union or another league outfit looms large.
“He wants a premiership for the Knights,” Andre said. “The results don’t show it, but he is always optimistic.”
The clock may be ticking on Ponga’s NRL career, whether by design or by opportunity.
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