All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has left the possibility open for NRL talent Kalyn Ponga to make a significant code switch to rugby union before the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Currently contracted to the Newcastle Knights until 2027, Ponga has sparked ongoing speculation around his future amidst suggestions he might not remain with the Knights.
At 26 years old, Ponga has New Zealand heritage and spent part of his childhood in Palmerston North, adding further intrigue to the prospect of him donning the All Blacks jersey. He has previously expressed interest in representing the All Blacks and is also considering the Kiwis rugby league team.
In a discussion on the Rugby Direct podcast, Robertson stated, “If he comes to us, we’ll have a conversation. You always keep the door open. He’s a hell of a player.” Ponga had mentioned his aspiration to play for the All Blacks during a 2019 interview, indicating that returning to rugby union would be a significant goal for him.
Though New Zealand Rugby has experienced mixed outcomes with players transitioning from league—successful cases like Brad Thorn and Sonny Bill Williams stand alongside less successful attempts such as Benji Marshall and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck—the potential for Ponga’s move remains compelling. Recent comments by Stephen Donald, the 2011 Rugby World Cup hero, suggested that a source indicated union was still an option for Ponga, further fuelling the speculation.
For Ponga to realistically contend for a spot in the 2027 World Cup squad, he would need to join a Super Rugby team shortly. This pathway aligns with Robertson’s view that player development must occur alongside winning results, as he referenced New Zealand’s approach of nurturing talent while striving for success.
As Ponga continues to weigh his options between league and union, the potential for him to wear the famed All Blacks uniform generates substantial interest within both sports, while highlighting the ongoing crossover between codes in Australian and New Zealand rugby culture.