Scans have confirmed that Knights captain Kalyn Ponga has suffered a Lisfranc injury to his right foot. The injury involves broken bones or torn ligaments in the midfoot region, varying in severity from one joint to many joints and bones.
The star fullback could miss at least 12 weeks, with Newcastle Knights Director of Football Peter Parr confirming there will be a long recovery period.
"Kalyn had scans on Monday morning confirming he has a Lisfranc injury," Parr said.
"The next steps will include seeing a surgeon and setting an injury management program.
"Unfortunately, at this stage it appears to be a long-term injury, with a return to play likely to be months rather than weeks."
The injury means the Queensland star will most likely miss the entire State of Origin series, paving the way for Reece Walsh to once again take the No. 1 jersey in Billy Slater's team.