EXCLUSIVE: Andrew Johns’ ‘alarming’ remarks on Kalyn Ponga as early State of Origin selection talks heat up

According to Blues icon Andrew Johns, Kalyn Ponga would be the Maroons’ fullback “by a country mile” if State of Origin selections were made today.

Johns believes that if Billy Slater were to choose the team, it might lead to Reece Walsh being completely omitted from the lineup.

Ponga sat out the entirety of the 2023 Origin series and the initial two matches of the 2024 series, but he has been named on the bench for the third game of the year.

However, following the performances witnessed in the opening rounds, Johns suggested that the Maroons’ spine should feature Ponga, Cameron Munster, Daly Cherry-Evans, and Harry Grant.

“It’s a bit frightening,” he remarked on Nine’s Immortal Behaviour.

“Kalyn is exceptional … he’s the standout player in the competition right now, leading the way after the first two rounds.

“His impact on the game is undeniable; without him, the Knights would struggle to secure a win.”

Following two performance-heavy matches against the Roosters and Raiders, Johns commented that Walsh needs to temper his pursuit of the spectacular.

Tune in to the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

“In the last game (against the Raiders), he seemed a bit frustrated,” he noted.

“Instinctive players like Reece can’t have that creativity coached out of them; he just needs to focus on not going for the highlight reel every time.

“Particularly in Origin, you can’t force the spectacular – it has to come naturally.”

“But even if both Kalyn and Reece were at their peak, you’ve got to lean towards Kalyn.”

During an episode of Nine’s Freddy and the Eighth, Brad Fittler questioned Johns about Walsh’s inclusion in the squad.

“No – I would opt for Hunt. Ben Hunt is arguably the finest No. 14 we’ve seen in Origin since Kurt (Gidley),” he replied.

On Nine’s QLDER, Darren Lockyer commented that it was “far too premature” to discuss Origin selections, although he admitted that Ponga was “exceptional” against the Dolphins.

“Both players possess unique talents, and I’m certain Billy monitors their performances closely every week,” he added.

Wally Lewis remarked that Ponga had kicked off the season “exactly as one would hope,” but suggested it might be “a bit harsh” to draw comparisons with Walsh at this early stage.