‘Lights out’: Ponga’s fourth concussion in 10 months puts future in question
Ponga #Ponga
Kalyn Ponga’s 2023 season has been thrown into disarray after the Knights superstar was knocked out after 90 seconds against the Wests Tigers – his fourth concussion in 10 months.
Ponga, 24, tried to tackle Asu Kepaoa front on at Leichhardt Oval, but a head clash with the Tigers forward appeared to concuss the Newcastle No. 6 before he even hit the ground.
Tigers players immediately called for help following the incident which happened on the fourth tackle of the Knights’ first defensive set of the game.
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“Oh no, Ponga’s been knocked out,” Andrew Voss said on Fox League.
“Kepaoa has run straight into Ponga. This is a sensation. Kalyn Ponga hits the deck and it’s just about lights out. My goodness.
“He raced up, Ponga, and bang. That surely will be the last we’ll see of him today.”
Knights superstar Kalyn Ponga is knocked out after just 90 seconds. Fox LeagueSource: FOX SPORTS
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It took less than two minutes for Newcastle officials to confirm that Ponga’s game was over, with the hit classified as a category one by doctors.
“He’s got a history of concussions too, Kalyn Ponga,” Cooper Cronk said.
“First and foremost check on his welfare, but in terms of the context of this afternoon’s game, huge news. Not even through two minutes yet.”
A hush fell over Leichhardt Oval following the tackle and Voss then questioned where to next for Ponga.
“That is staggering, it is dramatic. Independent doctor, no matter what, it will go into that category one you would think. What a sensation in the opening minute of the match,” Voss responded.
“Where to for Kalyn Ponga? It’s such a worrying story for him in rugby league, nobody takes any joy out of that.
“Tigers fans coming here today were looking forward to watching Ponga play.”
Knights utility Tyson Gamble replaced Ponga but Cronk questioned whether Newcastle would be able to the win without their best player.
“Kalyn Ponga, a star of our competition, he had some class touches last week against the Warriors as well,” Cronk said.
“He has a huge influence Kalyn Ponga, he’s one of those guys that when you lace up the boots and put the mouthguard in before the game, he has presence and influence and his ability on the field is up there with the best.
“How do the knights respond now? Under pressure from a poor performance last week and now no Ponga, this game has huge context early.”
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