As NRL clubs look hopefully towards next season - we pessimistically ponder the worst-case scenario for each of the 17 teams in 2023.

9. Newcastle Knights: Ponga head knocks continue

Newcastle coach Adam O'Brien has lots to worry about in 2023 as another campaign like last season will likely see him out of a job.

The Knights' pick-up of Jackson Hastings should help put the club back on course, provided he pairs well with whoever ends up in the halves with him.

But one thing is certain, whether he plays fullback or five-eighth, if Newcastle is going to break out of the bottom four, they need their captain on deck and playing consistent football.

Kalyn Ponga has shown in Origin that when surrounded by other players who are rowing the boat in the same direction, he can be an elite player, but constant head knocks are preventing him from fulfilling his potential at club level.

Another prolonged stint in the concussion bin would be catastrophic for Newcastle in 2023.

NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 22: Kalyn Ponga of the Knights receives attention after being tackled high by Matthew Lodge of the Roosters during the round 19 NRL match between the Newcastle Knights and the Sydney Roosters at McDonald Jones Stadium, on July 22, 2022, in Newcastle, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

1 COMMENT

  1. Before I read this, I thought “the worst that can happen” would be the same for each club: injury to one of its spine.

    However – Dolphins, Dragons, West and Warriors – all about the club pulling together. Cows and Roosters – the same (to a lesser degree).

    Perhaps this tells us that the influence of the coach – his ability to plan, organise, motivate and control his squad – is at least as important as that of any one player.