Kalyn Ponga has admitted he “wasn’t ready” for State of Origin football last year – but he’s more than up for the task heading into this year’s decider.
The 26-year-old ruled himself out of playing for the Maroons last year after dealing with concussions early in the campaign with the Knights.
His absence opened the door for young gun Reece Walsh to light up the Origin arena and play a major role in Queensland retaining the shield.
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Ponga was again missing for his state in the first two games of this series, sidelined with a footy injury, but will return for an epic decider at Suncorp Stadium next week.
Kalyn Ponga during his return for the Knights in round 18. Getty
The fullback has played just 80 minutes of football in the past three months, helping Newcastle to a hard-fought victory over the Raiders on Sunday.
Queensland selectors had no concerns catapulting Ponga straight into the lineup, with the reigning Dally M Medal winner named on the bench for game three.
Speaking to media on Monday, Ponga admitted he went through a “difficult period” 12 months ago, but is now in the perfect frame of mind to take on the Blues.
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“I’m definitely excited – I know what this environment is like and what it’s like to play for this team and this state,” he said.
“It was a difficult period for me. I wasn’t ready mentally and physically for this arena. I was just coming back from everything that was going on with me personally.
“The decision that was made by Billy [Slater] and myself was the best for me at that point in time. I’m extremely grateful and to go and have the year that I had was huge.
Kalyn Ponga speaks to the media prior to the Origin decider. Avid
“I’ve never really doubted myself. I always wanted to be back in this arena, I’m never gonna close the door on it.
“I know what this arena takes. I will warm my shoulders up and get myself right.”
Walsh has retained the No.1 jumper for the decider, with Ponga expected to play in the middle of the field in a roving utility role, giving the Maroons an added threat in attack.
Ponga also acknowledged his issues with injury and concussion could have prematurely ended his career, but is grateful to be back fit and firing.
“Yeah, it was a reality for a bit there,” he said.
“I think I’ve always been pretty grateful of the position I’m in. I’ve always had that sort of mindset of when you do go to a pretty low point, everything is pretty good after that.
“The way I finished last year, I was extremely grateful and I know what it takes now to be at the top and be the best version of myself.”
Ponga was one of three changes to the Queensland side, with Dane Gagai and Selwyn Cobbo replacing the injured Xavier Coates and Murray Taulagi in the backline.
Jaydn Su’A was dropped for the decider, allowing Kurt Capewell to join the starting back-row and Ponga coming onto the interchange.