nib Newcastle Knights coach Nathan Brown has confirmed his side to face Brisbane at McDonald Jones Stadium.

In a cruel blow for the Knights, Kalyn Ponga has been ruled out with a calf issue.

He has been replaced by Kurt Mann which means Mason Lino comes into the starting side.

In a boost for the Knights, David Klemmer will make his return from a wrist injury.

TEAM

6. Kurt Mann, 2. Edrick Lee, 3. Hymel Hunt, 4. Jesse Ramien, 5. Shaun Kenny-Dowall, 18. Mason Lino, 7. Mitchell Pearce, 19. David Klemmer, 9. Connor Watson, 10. Daniel Saifiti, 11. Lachlan Fitzgibbon, 12. Sione Mata'utia, 13. Tim Glasby. Interchange: 14. Jamie Buhrer, 15. Herman Ese'ese, 16. Josh King, 8. James Gavet