Darren Lockyer backs Kalyn Ponga for Queensland and five-eighth

He has already proven himself Origin-ready, now Maroons selector Darren Lockyer says Kalyn Ponga could even challenge for Queensland selection at five-eighth.

Queensland’s future lies with Ponga. Picture. Phil Hillyard

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Kalyn Ponga has the durability to become a successful five-eighth and is capable of pressing for Queensland selection there this year, Maroons selector Darren Lockyer says.

Ponga’s switch from fullback to five-eighth at Newcastle this year is being compared to Lockyer’s own transition to a playmaking role at the Broncos in 2004, albeit as a seasoned Test fullback.

Like Lockyer did, 20-year-old Ponga will have to absorb on a week-to-week basis more defence if he stays in the position as coaches send big forwards in his direction.

Newcastle are putting their faith in Ponga’s ability. Picture. Phil Hillyard

Asked if Ponga was capable of playing with structure at his age or would be more of an ad lib playmaker for the Knights, Lockyer said: “I don’t think organising is a natural thing for him, but what he does have is very good vision, how he positions his outside backs and puts them into space.

“That is what makes him so good.

“He is also good at seeing where the space is — he’s a visionary player. If he has a No.7 who can organise the team around the park, I have no doubt he will be good in the No.6 jersey.’’

Ponga in action for the Maori All Stars. Photo: AAP Image/Daniel Pockett

Ponga had off-season surgery to reattach a ligament in his foot and have bone spurs removed.

“Defence isn’t something that scares me especially about five-eighth, when you have boys either side of you, willing to help you,’’ Ponga told The Sunday Mail.

“I played one game there last year and it’s a pretty cool position because you get to build a role with your backrower and centre.’’

Lockyer said Knights co-captain Mitchell Pearce would be the “general’’ to get Newcastle around the field.

“That allows Kalyn to keep his eye out on where they are short (on defenders) and take advantage of opportunities,’’ he said.

Queensland’s future lies with Ponga. Picture. Phil Hillyard

Ponga, who played once for Queensland off the bench last year, is one of a number of “spine’’ position players who can be plugged into spots for Queensland depending on perceived suitability and form.

These include incumbent five-eighth Cameron Munster, Michael Morgan, who played fullback in one game for Queensland in 2018 and one as a centre in 2017, and Anthony Milford, who played once at five-eighth in 2017 and once off the bench last year.

“If Kalyn plays at No.6 and starts the season well, I don’t have any reservations about whether he can handle Origin in the same position,’’ Lockyer said.

“He definitely exceeded my expectations of what he was capable of when he played in the line (in Game Two for Queensland).’’

Ponga played for the Maori All-Stars on Friday night, his first game since a 2018 season in which he was honoured by his peers with the Players Association Players’ Champion award.

Queensland have to settle on a new fullback and right winger for the June 5 clash with NSW because Billy Slater retired and Valentine Holmes has chanced his arm in American football.

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