Ponga Set for Six Weeks Out, Brown Also Injured for Four Weeks in Knights Nightmare

2026-03-16 - 01:57

Kalyn Ponga looks set for a lengthy stint on the sidelines, with the Knights confirming the extent of the superstar fullback’s hamstring injury. The 27-year-old limped off the field in Sunday’s big win over Manly and scans have now revealed a grade two hamstring strain. Ponga is expected to miss at least six weeks and could be out for up to two months. Phil Gould noted the Knights will be thankful that Fletcher Sharpe is on the verge of returning to play, but Ponga’s loss will still be a “huge blow” for the club. To make matters worse, star recruit Dylan Brown also succumbed to a knee injury at Brookvale Oval. Brown initially stayed on the field with some heavy strapping, but did not return for the second half and was spotted in a brace before full time. Scans have confirmed a grade two MCL strain which will sideline Brown for a month. It’s a bitter blow for the Knights after a strong start to the season, highlighted by the victory away from home against the Sea Eagles with two key players on the bench. The visitors struck early on Sunday afternoon through Greg Marzhew, who powered over the line in the first minute of the match. It was largely one-way traffic for the opening half, with Dom Young and Ponga getting on the board before Fletcher Hunt and Tyson Frizell made it a 30-10 deficit. Paul Gallen couldn’t believe the performance from Newcastle, who ran out 36-16 victors. “This team in 2025 were the worst attacking side by a long way,” he said. “This crowd is very quiet.”