Newcastle Knights' captain Kalyn Ponga faces a 12-week injury layoff, potentially missing the State of Origin series due to a Lisfranc rupture.

Newcastle Knights' captain Kalyn Ponga faces a potential 12-week injury layoff due to a suspected Lisfranc rupture, a foot injury that may require surgery. This devastating blow to the team comes amidst a slow start to the season, with only two wins from seven games. Ponga's absence will rule him out of this year's State of Origin series and leave the Knights without their marquee player at a crucial time.