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AAP
AAP
Sport
Annabelle Banfield

'Tears in their eyes': Ponga proud to represent family

Kalyn Ponga looked right at home training with New Zealand ahead of the World Cup. (Robbie Stephenson/AAP PHOTOS)

Kalyn Ponga was overcome with gratitude, suiting up as a Kiwi after international eligibility changes allowed the star fullback to experience the Test arena for the first time with his nation of choice.

The gun No.1 has had a phenomenal 2026, captaining Newcastle to the NRL grand final and representing Queensland in State of Origin, but he says the upcoming World Cup is the pinnacle of the sport.

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