Gus Gould refuses to answer Ponga Origin send-off question — ‘I’d like you to keep your job’

Phil ‘Gus’ Gould has been involved in a bizarre moment on Channel Nine’s Origin coverage where he refused to answer a question on Kalyn Ponga’s send-off and appeared to suggest host James Bracey’s job would be under threat if he did answer.

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Gould was on Channel 9’s Origin panel with Bracey, Darren Lockyer and Brad Fittler discussing the aftermath of NSW’s 22-20 fightback win over Queensland in Origin 1 at Accor Stadium on Wednesday night.

The Maroons led 20-6 until Ponga was sent off by referee Ashley Klein following a head clash with NSW’s Tolu Koula in the 57th minute.

With the controversial send-off being a point of debate, Bracey asked Gould for his opinion on whether players should have the responsibility of a duty of care to their opponent in head clashes.

MORE: Watch — Kalyn Ponga controversially sent off for Tolu Koula hit in Origin 1

However, after a pause for dramatic effect, Gould chose to not answer the question, instead issuing a bizarre statement while spinning in his chair.

What the hell is this all about from Gus Gould. “I want you to keep your job”. What a dick. What’s the point of having him still on the TV. Get rid. #Origin pic.twitter.com/I3PZftvqNq

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— Frank (@GregAFC) May 27, 2026

«Ah James, I suggest you ask someone else mate — rather than me,» Gould said cryptically.

«If you don’t mind. I’d like you to keep your job.»

Awkward laughs then spread across the panel before Bracey made an effort to clarify his line of questioning.

«We’re having an open discussion about an incident that was out there on the park tonight,» Bracey said in the direction of Gould before continuing on with his hosting duties.

Fans were critical of Gould’s decision to gag himself on the broadcast, questioning why he was on the panel in the first place if he wasn’t going to speak on issues.

The host broadcaster having a panelist (Phil Gould) refusing to comment on the key decision of the match is certainly a choice #origin

— Sam Walker (@samuelsays11) May 27, 2026

Gus Gould just refused to answer a question on the panel

Ummm why are you even there tonight if your not going to talk

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— Sally (@SallyGearing) May 27, 2026