Queensland rocked as Kalyn Ponga officially ruled out

Queensland is being forced to turn to State of Origin debutant Kyle Feldt after superstar Kalyn Ponga was officially ruled out on Wednesday morning.

The fullback was called into camp just two days ago, but has now been released after failing to prove his fitness.

He was named by coach Paul Green despite being ruled out of Newcastle‘s clash against Manly on Sunday with an ongoing groin injury.

The Maroons were rolling the dice with Ponga and star five-eighth Cameron Munster (foot) both under injury clouds.

Green’s 20-man squad for Game 1 included Feldt and Titans fullback AJ Brimson as reserves, but reports have revealed Green will turn to Cowboys star Valentine Holmes to wear Ponga’s No. 1 jumper.

That means Holmes’ wing spot has opened up for Feldt to make his Origin debut in front of his home Townsville crowd next Wednesday.

Kalyn Ponga is hoping to be back for Game 2.Source:AAP

Queensland is still hoping Munster and star No. 9 Harry Grant are both at their best as they return from injuries.

Grant has been given the all clear in an intriguing move that is expected to see him earn the starting spot ahead of potential debutant Reed Mahoney. Mahoney is still in camp with Queensland and is reported to still be in the mix for selection, despite Parramatta naming him as a reserve for their side this weekend.

It means’ Grant’s spot as a utility on the bench is now expected to be given to Brimson.

Team doctor Matt Hislop confirmed Ponga’s injury news on Wednesday.

“Kalyn has been progressing with his rehab but time is against us and the decision has been made for him to return to the Newcastle Knights where he can focus on further recovery,” he said.

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