Star New Zealand fullback Kalyn Ponga faces lacking the remainder of the Rugby League World Cup after scans Friday confirmed he broke his arm within the thrilling event opener in opposition to Australia.
Ponga, who switched allegiance from Australia to New Zealand this yr, scored two tries and pulled off a try-saving sort out as his aspect fell 24-22 in Sydney on Thursday.
He performed on for 20 minutes after the damage earlier than leaving the sector within the seventieth minute.
Team physician Greg Macleod stated in an announcement the Newcastle Knights captain had been booked in for surgical procedure “after breaking the radius in his left arm“.
“We wish Kalyn all the best with his surgery today,” added Macleod, who left open the chance that he may return earlier than the event last on November 15.
“We’ll see how that goes but for now he will remain in camp.”
Ponga was extensively considered as crucial to the Kiwis’ hopes of claiming their first World Cup since 2008.
New Zealand face the Cook Islands in Christchurch subsequent week earlier than wrapping up their group stage in opposition to Fiji.
“He’s a tough bugger and obviously has a lot of pride in the black and white jersey, and he doesn’t want to let his teammates down,” Kiwi captain James Fisher-Harris stated after the match.
“I thought he did an outstanding job, he’s a freakish player. We’re feeling for him right now.”
Australia have their very own damage worries with half-back Mitchell Moses hurting his calf within the recreation, limping off early within the second-half.
