Origin decider drama: Kalyn Ponga huge blow, To’o cleared but in fitness battle….
Kalyn Ponga has been officially ruled out of the State of Origin decider on July 9 at Sydney’s Accor Stadium, after scans confirmed a serious Lisfranc injury to his left foot during Newcastle’s Round 17 loss to Canberra .
He exited the match early, later wearing a moon boot, and now enters a lengthy rehab process that likely ends both his Origin and NRL seasons .
Queensland coach Billy Slater is now weighing up options—with Reece Walsh the leading candidate, though Hamiso Tabuai‑Fidow remains in the mix .
> “Maroons fullback Kalyn Ponga has been ruled out … leaving Queensland coach Billy Slater with the task of selecting a new No.‑1.
The NSW Blues have confirmed Brian To’o will start on the wing in the decider, despite ongoing knee concerns .
He was cleared of a high-tackle charge and scans showed no major structural damage, which allowed Laurie Daley to stick with an unchanged side .
Though his knee is taped and iced post-match, his training will be managed closely in the lead-up .
NSW: Finalised training squad revealed; unchanged starting 17 for July 9 .
QLD: Expecting an announcement shortly—likely one of Walsh or Tabuai‑Fidow steps into fullback.
QLD Ponga out → new No. 1 essential Could signal bold selection by Slater
NSW To’o fit but managed May not be full sharpness vs Queensland’s defence
Bottom line: Maroons have lost a major weapon in Ponga, while the Blues maintain continuity with To’o cleared. This decider is shaping into a classic clash of resilience vs stability on July 9 at Accor Stadium.
