NZ's Ponga back on bench - three weeks after breaking arm

New Zealand have named Kalyn Ponga on the bench for their Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Tonga - just three weeks after he broke his forearm.

And hooker Phoenix Crossland is also in contention to feature after completing a four-match ban imposed for the tackle that ruled Nathan Cleary out of the World Cup.

Ponga suffered a broken arm on 15 October during the opening game of the tournament, which New Zealand lost to Australia in a thrilling encounter.

The full-back played on for around 20 minutes with the injury as Australia narrowly triumphed 24-22, before having to go for surgery.