Injury update: Queensland Maroons squad

Queensland Rugby League can confirm Kalyn Ponga has been ruled out of next month’s State of Origin series.

Ponga, who made his Origin debut for the Queensland Maroons in Game II of the 2018 series, was named in Queensland’s initial squad of 15 players on Wednesday, subject to an appointment with a surgeon.

“Based on advice from Kalyn's treating surgeon, and our assessment, Kalyn should be medically ruled out of this year’s Origin series,” Maroons doctor Matt Hislop said today.

“This decision is in both his and the team’s best interests, and will give him the best opportunity to recover and be ready for next year’s season.”

Ponga said he was "devastated to miss out on Origin". 

“I love pulling on the Maroons jersey. It is a privilege to play in the NRL and a privilege to be selected to represent Queensland," Ponga said. 

“As an athlete and competitor, I pride myself on performing no matter how my body feels but I also accept that both the Maroons and Knights medical staff have my best interest at heart in making this decision.

“I wish the Queensland camp all the best for a successful 2020 series. I’ll be cheering loudly from home and will be working tirelessly to earn my place back in the squad next year.”