Kalyn Ponga’s Knights contract saga has taken another turn with reports he could stay with the club if Maroons assistant Josh Hannay is brought in as head coach.
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WWOS’ The Mole reported Ponga is more likely to see out the remainder of his two year deal that expires in 2027, if Hannay replaces Adam O’Brien.
O’Brien is reportedly set to be sacked by the club at the end of the season and paid out the remainder of his two year deal at the club.
Ponga reportedly has a close bond with Hannay from their time working together in Queensland Origin camp.
“The two get on very well and if Hannay gets the Knights job, the chances of Ponga staying definitely increase,” a source close to the situation said on condition of anonymity, according to The Mole.
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The Knights skipper is reportedly targeting a code switch to rugby union and could walk out on the club at the end of the 2025 season.
However, who the Knights’ next coach is could be a factor in Ponga’s decision to stay or go.
Knights’ current assistant Blake Green is reportedly the favourite to land the role, while former Souths halfback Willie Peters, who coaches Hull Kingston Rovers in Super League and former Eels coach Brad Arthur have also been floated.
Arthur is also a leading contender to replace Des Hasler at the Titans.
Ponga’s father has engaged a Kiwi agent and they are looking at Japanese rugby as New Zealand Super Rugby franchises could not afford his asking price.
