NZ’s Ponga back in World Cup contention after broken arm

New Zealand have named full-back Kalyn Ponga on their reserve list for the Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Tonga. Ponga returns to contention just three weeks after undergoing surgery for a broken forearm suffered during New Zealand's 24-22 opening tournament defeat to Australia on October 15. Hooker Phoenix Crossland was also included on the reserve list after finishing a four-match suspension.

While Ponga and Crossland currently remain outside the starting squad, head coach Stacey Jones could still elevate them into the 19-man matchday squad before Saturday's clash in Newcastle. Meanwhile, Tonga enters the semi-final unchanged after finishing atop their group, and reigning champions Australia will play Samoa in Sunday's other men's semi-final match.