Opinion
This time last week all the speculation about Kalyn Ponga’s contract was put to bed when he signed a five-year extension to remain in the Hunter. While Jayden Brailey is on the mend, Kalyn Ponga has been handed the captaincy.
But should he continue as captain now?
I’ve been a fan of KP from his debut. I remember thinking that he’ll be a great long-term choice for North Queenslanders after Johnathan Thurston hangs up his boots. Much to my delight, he signed a great deal to come to Newcastle beginning in 2018.
In his Knights debut he scored his first try for the side and converted it within four minutes. He effectively had more points to his name as a Knight than number of minutes he’d played for them.
As much as a fan I am of Kalyn Ponga, he should give the role to Tyson Frizell. Frizell has proven himself as a leader in the two games Ponga didn’t play this season and brings the required leadership. A true leader has no followers and teaches others how to become leaders.
This Sunday, Newcastle will host Melbourne, and after last Sunday’s performance, we won’t accept a loss or any excuses. I’ll be there as always, and I hope we get a packed house once more – and I hope we get the result we want.
We have a great team on the field and we have a decent coaching staff. Our players need to show us fans that those words can be backed up. Melbourne are coming off their record-tying match for most points scored in a game, and one thing I know about the Melbourne Storm is they have the elite system that makes them a successful club. They won’t want to take it easy.
I remember in Rounds 1 and 2 Newcastle were ruthless and showed no relent. The way they played was amazing and exactly how a team that wants to win has to play. It’s more than just about which team wants it more, it’s also about which team wants to fight for it.
If KP wants to prove his worth as a captain for the Newcastle Knights, he needs to prove to Knights fans he has what it takes to lead us to victory over Melbourne no matter how ruthless we have to be. The Knights fans want our team to win.
I’ve said all I have to say; now, my fellow Roarers, the floor is yours. Should Kalyn Ponga remain the Newcastle Knights captain? Should Tyson Frizell be given the role? If neither of them, who else?
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