Ponga returns from broken arm to power NZ to World Cup final — SkimNews
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- Kalyn Ponga played through a broken left forearm sustained in the opening game against Australia on 15 October, returning just 23 days after surgery to start in New Zealand’s World Cup semi-final against Tonga.
- Stacey Jones confirmed Ponga was only cleared to play after passing final assessments following the team’s second-to-last training session, praising his toughness and determination to feature despite the injury.
- James Fisher-Harris described Ponga as a 'freak of nature' and highlighted his leadership and defensive impact, including a try-saving block on Demitric Vaimauga during the semi-final.
- New Zealand defeated Tonga 34-10 in Newcastle, with Ponga directly involved in four of their six tries through assists and key plays, while Jamayne Isaako kicked five from six conversions in difficult conditions.
- Kristian Woolf acknowledged Tonga’s loss was due to poor handling of the weather and decision-making under pressure, not just the elements, calling it a 'missed opportunity' for a talented group.
Why it matters: New Zealand gains a genuine title shot after 13 years, with Ponga’s return shifting the balance of the tournament; Tonga’s exit underscores their growth but also the gap when conditions demand precision, making this both a breakthrough and a setback for Pacific rugby league ambition.
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