NRL investigates third-party deal of Newcastle Knights star Kalyn Ponga

The NRL is investigating a third-party deal involving Kalyn Ponga and a business associate of one of the Newcastle Knights’ most senior figures.

Kalyn Ponga and his father, Andrew. Picture: Peter Lorimer/Getty Images

The NRL has opened an investigation into a third-party deal involving Newcastle star Kalyn Ponga and a business associate of one of the club’s most senior figures.

The deal, which was given written approval by the NRL four years ago, is believed to be worth six figures and has come under the microscope after Ponga’s father, Andre, raised concerns regarding the agreement.

Knights officials confirmed the deal had been given the green light by the NRL in 2020 and the club was confident the issue was not with them.

“All third parties are registered with the NRL. There’s no issue with Kalyn Ponga’s contract and anything to do with third parties remain between the player and his agent to resolve,” a Knights spokesman told this masthead on Monday night.

Kalyn Ponga and his father, Andre. Picture: Peter Lorimer/Getty Images

However, issue being reviewed is that the third-party deal was between Ponga and a business associate of one of the club’s most powerful figures.

There is no suggestion Ponga, his father Andre, or the club figure and the business associate have done anything wrong.

“The NRL is aware of the matter and is reviewing it,” an NRL spokesman said.

Ponga, currently sidelined with a foot injury, is one of the highest-paid players in the NRL, having signed a lucrative contract with the Knights two years ago that is due to pay him upwards of $1.4 million this season.

He spurned interest from other NRL clubs and the prospect of a switch to rugby union to commit his future to Newcastle, leading the club to the finals last year and capping his return from concussion concerns by winning the Dally M medal.

Investigations into the deal are in their nascent stages and at this point it remains an issue between Ponga and the person responsible for the third-party deal.

At this stage there appears no indication that the Knights have any concerns. However, the NRL integrity unit wants to make sure the matter is investigated thoroughly, having had the latter brought to their attention.

Ponga is currently sidelined with a foot injury. Picture: Scott Gardiner/Getty Images

Ponga was sidelined earlier this season with a Lisfranc injury in his foot after the club lost to the Bulldogs. He underwent surgery and was expected to miss up to 12 weeks, ending his hopes of reclaiming his Queensland jersey for the State of Origin series and seemingly hurting Newcastle’ chances of turning around their season.

However, in his absence the Knights have kept their season alive, winning three games in succession to remain in touch with the top eight.