Kalyn Ponga detail could see Knights lose young gun as Souths set to snare halfback from Tigers…

The Newcastle Knights could be set to release emerging talent Connor Votano with the 18-year-old sitting behind Kalyn Ponga and Fletcher Sharpe in the pecking order, while Wayne Bennett is making moves at the Rabbitohs. While the Knights may have been searching for a consistent halves combination in 2024, they certainly were not short on star fullbacks throughout the season.

Ponga, the highest-paid player in the NRL on $1.4 million a season, is considered by many as the best fullback in the game on his day. The No.1 is the leader of the Knights team and is set to hold down the fullback role for many years to come.

This saw the talented Sharpe bide his time and fill-in for Ponga when the No.1 was injured in 2024. Sharpe was so impressive he was then selected to play on the wing for the Knights and was a revelation at the backend of the season.

And the Bulldogs have reportedly sought clarification on Votano’s availability considering he will beon the development list in 2025. The 18-year-old talent was sensational in 2024 and even debuted on the wing for NSW in the u-19s State of Origin series.