Ponga and Walsh set for World Cup final fullback duel

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Nov, 06:31 · Archive

New Golden Boot winner Kalyn Ponga faces Queensland teammate Reece Walsh in Sunday's Rugby League World Cup final.

The Rugby League World Cup final between New Zealand and Australia will feature a clash between fullbacks Kalyn Ponga and Reece Walsh at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday. Ponga won the Golden Boot award after two outstanding displays for the Kiwis either side of a broken forearm. Walsh, 24, has been man of the match twice in three matches after returning from ankle surgery.

Wally Lewis said Ponga's form has been 'the standout feature' of the World Cup. The two players are State of Origin teammates for Queensland but fierce rivals at international level. They previously met in a pool match won 24-20 by the Kangaroos, with Ponga leaving the field in the 70th minute after playing on with his injury.

Ponga said of the prospect of facing Walsh again: 'I'd like to. I hope he doesn't. I have a lot of respect for him. He is a great player and has been a great teammate in the past.' He added that both players focus on their roles and that there is 'a bigger goal at the end of it'. Kangaroos captain Isaah Yeo said Walsh's progression comes from confidence and that he 'puts defenders under so much pressure, exactly the same as Kalyn'.

How it is being reported

• Fullback battle between Kalyn Ponga and Reece Walsh looming as decisive factor in World Cup finalThe two superstars will go head to head in another chapter to the rivalry.Perth Now · 14 Nov, 06:00
• Fullback battle between Kalyn Ponga and Reece Walsh looming as decisive factor in World Cup finalThe two superstars will go head to head in another chapter to the rivalry.The West Australian · 14 Nov, 06:00

In this story: Kalyn Ponga · Reece Walsh · New Zealand · Australia · Queensland · Suncorp Stadium · Wally Lewis · Isaah Yeo

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