Andrew Johns Expresses Concern Over Kalyn Ponga’s Potential Impact in State of Origin
Andrew Johns, a legendary Blues halfback, has expressed his fear about the possibility of Kalyn Ponga making an impact off the bench in the upcoming State of Origin series. He also mentioned being concerned about the NSW media’s treatment of Cameron Munster, which he believes will prepare the player for a strong performance.
Karl Stefanovic took over from Brad Fittler in this week’s episode of Nine’s Freddy and the Eighth, now titled Karl and the Eighth. The co-host of Today – who is originally from Queensland and a big fan of the Maroons – revealed the team he would choose for the State of Origin opener, which is scheduled to take place at Sydney’s Accor Stadium on May 27.
Stefanovic listed Reece Walsh as fullback, a decision that seems hard to argue against given Walsh’s impressive form during Brisbane’s premiership-winning season and Australia’s 3-0 Ashes whitewash. He also named Ponga in the No.14 jersey.
Reece Walsh is widely considered the best fullback in the game currently and some even believe he is the best player of any position. Ponga, wearing the No.14 jersey, is also a logical choice because of his versatility compared to “Reece Lightning.”
As Johns explained on Karl and the Eighth, “You can put him anywhere and just let him roam.” He recalled how Ponga made a significant impact when he debuted in 2018, coming on for Jarrod Wallace and playing front row while nearly earning man of the match.
“We know he’s a special player. He’s out and out one of the best players I’ve ever seen when he’s injury-free. He is just incredible. Him coming on when everyone’s gassed is terrifying. Him and Reece together floating around – frightening.”
Walsh recently suffered a broken cheekbone in a tackle gone wrong in round five of this season, missing three weeks before making a brilliant return against the Roosters last Saturday night. The 23-year-old scored a try, set up another, and generally proved a major headache for the Tricolours in attack, especially as the Broncos threatened to pull off an extraordinary comeback win from 30-0 down.
Ponga, meanwhile, has been outstanding at fullback for the Knights, who have played some electrifying rugby league under Justin Holbrook’s first season in charge.
Stefanovic also highlighted the stunning slump of the Storm, who are riding a seven-game losing streak – the longest in the club’s history. They will face Benji Marshall’s dangerous Wests Tigers on Sunday afternoon.
Despite the slump, Munster is all but certain to be wearing the iconic Queensland No.6 jumper in Sydney on May 27, alongside Cowboys young gun Tom Dearden at halfback.
“You’re talking about the Argentinian No.10 jersey,” Johns said. “There’s no more famous jersey in Australian sport than the Queensland No.6. And all the NSW media has been shit-bagging Munster. I know his personality – if anyone says you can’t do this or you won’t do this, he’ll be like, ‘Yeah, you watch’.”
Billy Slater’s Maroons are the defending Origin champions, having beaten NSW 24-12 on the Blues’ home patch in a decider.
