Kalyn Ponga concussion updates: When will Newcastle Knights star return to NRL?
Kalyn Ponga is set to undergo a concussion test in Canada while recovering from a series of head injuries.
The Newcastle Knights star is currently out after suffering a headbutt in a game against Wests Tigers in early March.
The sports news has the latest updates on the Knights star.
Kalyn Ponga undergoes a special head injury test in Canada
The Newcastle Knights have decided to send Kalyn Ponga to Canada where he will take part in further investigations.
The decision was made by the club in conjunction with Professor Chris Levi, an independent concussion consultant.
In a statement released Friday, the Knights outlined how Ponga will be tested using a device that measures neurophysiological markers.
The intent is to use the finding to aid in clinical decision making regarding the Five-Eighth’s recovery.
Ponga travels to Vancouver for the evaluation as the technology is only approved for use in North America.
“Managing a concussion is a complex issue for everyone involved. We see this as an opportunity to gather additional information to assist Kalyn in his recovery,” added Knights director of football Peter Parr.
“Our broader goal, led by Professor Levi, is to develop a treatment model that will enhance our ability to support players with concussion.
“Kalyn remains in good spirits and would like to thank everyone who has inquired about his health.”
History of Kalyn Ponga’s concussion
Ponga has an unfortunate history of headbutting, spearheaded by a brutal 2022 season.
The Knights skipper suffered three concussions in a span of six weeks last year, which led to him hanging up his boots before the end of the campaign.
His most recent headbutt – against the Tigers in Round 2 – has left former players and pundits worried about his long-term viability in the league.
“My concern with Kalyn – and I’ve retired two players because of repeated concussions in my career – is the ease with which it’s happening now,” said Phil Gould.
“I don’t see these bumps as something excessive that should cause him such problems, it just seems like the ease with the collisions now, he seems to be reacting badly to them.
“It’s not a good sign. I think his career is in jeopardy to be honest – I don’t know how you sort that.”
When does Kalyn Ponga return to the NRL?
The Knights have confirmed Ponga and his tour company left Australia on March 24 and will return home after testing is complete.
Once the results are compiled and evaluated, the club may announce a more detailed recovery timeline.
A return date has not yet been set for Ponga.