Statement: Kalyn Ponga

Queensland Maroons coach Paul Green has today confirmed Kalyn Ponga has been ruled out of the opening game of this year’s State of Origin series.

“Kalyn has been progressing with his rehab but time is against us and the decision has been made for him to return to the Newcastle Knights where he can focus on further recovery," team doctor Matt Hislop said. 

The Maroons will take the field tomorrow for the team’s first main training session, where work will commence to finalise Ponga’s replacement.