Kalyn Ponga returns to New Zealand squad for World Cup semi-final
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 3, 2026, 8:39 AM
Last updated Nov 3, 2026

Kalyn Ponga has been named on the reserve list for New Zealand's Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Tonga, just three weeks after breaking his arm. Hooker Phoenix Crossland also joins the reserves after serving a suspension. Ponga sustained his injury during the tournament's opening match against Australia, which New Zealand lost. The match is scheduled for November 4 in Newcastle, New South Wales.
- •Ponga trained with a bandaged arm this week
- •Crossland returns after serving a four-match ban
- •New Zealand lost to Australia in their opener
- •Tonga finished top of Group B-C
- •Semi-final scheduled for November 4 in Newcastle
- 8:39 AMYahoo Sports — NZ's Ponga back in World Cup contention after broken arm
- 8:39 AMBBC Sport — NZ's Ponga back in World Cup contention after broken arm
"New Zealand call Kalyn Ponga and Phoenix Crossland into their extended squad for their 2026 Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Tonga.
"New Zealand call Kalyn Ponga and Phoenix Crossland into their extended squad for their 2026 Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Tonga.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsNov 3, 2026, 8:39 AMNZ's Ponga back in World Cup contention after broken arm
New Zealand call Kalyn Ponga and Phoenix Crossland into their extended squad for their 2026 Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Tonga.
- BBC SportNov 3, 2026, 8:39 AMNZ's Ponga back in World Cup contention after broken arm
New Zealand call Kalyn Ponga and Phoenix Crossland into their extended squad for their 2026 Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Tonga.
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