Kalyn Ponga eyes NZ Kiwis jersey after major State of Origin rule change

Rugby league superstar Kalyn Ponga has formally applied to switch his international allegiance to New Zealand.

The 27-year-old fullback, who previously represented Australia in the 2019 Rugby League World Cup 9s, is looking to take advantage of a landmark overhaul in State of Origin eligibility rules.

The bombshell news was first reported by CODE Sports chief writer David Riccio on NRL 360.

According to Riccio, the application will be reviewed by the International Rugby League (IRL) board on Wednesday.

"It is not ratified yet, and I don't see why they won't ratify it given they did so for AJ Brimson with England," Riccio said.

The decision comes just weeks after the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) confirmed a significant shift in policy.

Previously, representing a Tier 1 nation like New Zealand would have barred Ponga from the State of Origin arena.

Under the new criteria, players who meet the traditional eligibility requirements - such as residing in New South Wales or Queensland before their 13th birthday - can now represent the Kiwis or England without jeopardizing their Origin careers.

Ponga, who was born in Western Australia to New Zealand parents, qualifies for Queensland because he moved to the state as a child.

While Ponga has been a mainstay for the Maroons, his preference for the Kiwis has been a long-standing topic of discussion among those close to him.

He famously withdrew from Kangaroos selection in 2024 to focus on his NRL commitments, a move that drew criticism from some Australian legends but hinted at his shifting priorities.

If the IRL approves the transfer, Ponga is expected to join forces with Knights teammate Dylan Brown in the New Zealand squad for this year’s World Cup.

The tournament, which features a massive opening clash between Australia and New Zealand on October 15, could see Ponga wearing the black jersey for the first time.