Another NRL star turns his back on the Kiwis

Another one bites the dust, we just can't win! NRL star Kalyn Ponga has turned his back on New Zealand and pledged his allegiance to Queensland and Australia.

Ponga has come out and said the choice to turn his back on New Zealand was not a difficult one, however, he did have conversations with his family prior to his decision. The 19-year-old up and coming NRL star is happy with his decision and never had any pressure from his family to pick the black jersey.

Recently Ponga has been training on the Gold Coast with the 11-strong emerging Maroons squad, this is a stepping stone for State of Origin.

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In 2016 Ponga was faced with the decision of who he would represent, although, he avoided the decision altogether and chose not to play rep footy at all. Then in October 2017, Ponga chose to play for The Maori side instead of New Zealand residents, although didn't play due to a shoulder injury.

Although the NRL star had spent 5 years growing up in New Zealand he said the decision to play for Australia was easy, "I was born here, went to school here. To be honest it wasn't that tough pledging my allegiance to Queensland and Australia".

Ponga was destined for greatness in 2016 when he became only the sixth player to make their NRL debut in the finals when picked from obscurity by Paul Green (North Queensland coach). AFter playing just 2 games for the Cowboys he signed a four year, AUS $3 million dollar deal.

After being included in the Emerging maroons, Ponga is now set to earn his chance playing for the Maroons! 

Another big loss for New Zealand!