The Kangaroos’ squad announcement for the Pacific Championships has come with notable absences and significant injuries, leaving head coach Mal Meninga to reshape his plans. Penrith coach Ivan Cleary confirmed that his son, star halfback Nathan Cleary, is likely to require shoulder surgery after the NRL season. This could see veteran Daly Cherry-Evans take over as the chief halfback, positioning him as a pivotal figure for the tournament.
Meanwhile, the Canterbury Bulldogs’ winger Jacob Kiraz has been ruled out due to a persistent back injury. Kiraz, who had been eyeing a Kangaroos debut after being included among 31 players in the selection pool, will now miss the opportunity to represent his country. Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards is also in serious doubt due to a knee issue, leaving his availability uncertain.
In a surprising development, Newcastle Knights captain Kalyn Ponga withdrew from Kangaroos consideration, citing his desire to repay the Knights’ faith in him. The NRL has since demanded an explanation from Newcastle, with calls growing for Ponga to face a permanent ban from representing Australia. Meninga expressed his disappointment, particularly in the way Ponga’s withdrawal was communicated through a club statement rather than directly.
Meninga emphasized the importance of players making themselves available for representative duties unless injured, dismissing fatigue as an acceptable excuse. Despite Ponga’s situation, Meninga expects the Knights star to eventually don the green and gold again.
Cronulla Sharks fans, however, have been left frustrated as no Sharks players were selected in the squad, including Nicho Hynes, whose lackluster finals performance and a poor showing in State of Origin Game 1 have likely contributed to his exclusion.
As the squad continues to take shape, the Kangaroos will face Tonga in their first match of the Pacific Championships on October 18, with James Tedesco favored for the fullback role and Tom Trbojevic likely to return, having avoided shoulder surgery.
Stay tuned for updates as the squad is finalized, with fresh faces like Connor Watson, Xavier Coates, and Tom Dearden vying for their chance in the green and gold.
