Queensland coach Billy Slater has weighed in on the battle for the Maroons’ fullback jersey, praising Newcastle Knights star Kalyn Ponga while indirectly putting pressure on incumbent Reece Walsh.
Ponga delivered a standout performance in the Knights’ victory over the Dolphins last Thursday, continuing his strong start to the 2025 NRL season. As Newcastle’s captain, he has played a pivotal role in both attack and defence, guiding his team to back-to-back wins. Meanwhile, Walsh shone in the Broncos’ dominant round-one victory over the Roosters but struggled in their loss to the Raiders, raising questions about his form.
With just two rounds played, Walsh is already facing increased scrutiny over his State of Origin spot. Queensland legend Darren Lockyer suggested the young fullback may have slipped down the NRL’s elite rankings, and Slater’s latest comments only fuel speculation about a potential change.
Speaking on The Billy Slater Podcast, the Maroons coach was full of praise for Ponga, calling his performance one of the best in recent years. “He was so impressive. 10/10, to be honest,” Slater said after watching Ponga live in Newcastle.
“He is so influential in that football team, and it’s not a one-off. This was all of last year and the year before. They’ve won their opening two games, and it’s largely because of Kalyn. He’s the spark, the creator, controlling the attack, and doing more kicking. He has so much freedom, and they’re playing a style that maximizes his impact.”
Slater’s perfect rating for Ponga was a nod to the rare 10/10 scores once handed out by Rugby League Week. “There were only a handful of 10s given out in my time, but he would have got one,” Slater added.
While Slater didn’t directly mention Walsh, his comments indicate that Ponga has caught his attention early in 2025. Walsh, who faced criticism for his display against the Raiders, will need to step up to solidify his Origin spot.
Reece Walsh Faces State of Origin Pressure
Slater’s remarks serve as a warning for Walsh, and Maroons great Cooper Cronk also weighed in on the fullback debate. Speaking on SEN Radio, Cronk admitted he was in awe of Ponga’s performances in the opening rounds. “He is a gun. I’m a little jealous I don’t have the skills KP showed last night,” Cronk said.
However, Cronk was reluctant to rule Walsh out of the Maroons lineup entirely. He suggested Slater should find a way to accommodate both players, believing their presence could help key playmakers like Cameron Munster and Daly Cherry-Evans reclaim the Origin shield.
“I don’t know, just put him in there. Give him No.8, give him No.13,” Cronk joked. “I have no say in selection… but Reece Walsh and Kalyn Ponga would both be in my side.”
Walsh endured an injury-hit 2024 season, which saw the Broncos miss the finals, while Ponga led Newcastle to consecutive playoff appearances. Now, after just two rounds in 2025, Walsh has work to do to hold onto his Maroons jersey. He will be eager to respond with a strong performance against the Cowboys this weekend.
