KNIGHTS BLAST WALLABIES COACH OVER PONGA CALL

The Newcastle Knights have told rugby officials to back off, as they chase Kalyn Ponga.

The NRL superstar has two and a half years left to run on his Knights contract – and will likely extend his stay.

But Wallabies coach Michael Chieka has confirmed he phoned the 21-year-old to pose the idea of a code switch.

Knights CEO Philip Gardner says it’s inappropriate for any contact to be made from rugby union – or anyone else – confirming the club will be doing all it can to keep Ponga in red and blue for the long-term.

(VISION ONLY)