Australia names 23-man Kangaroos squad for Rugby League World Cup
Quick Look
- Australia has announced a 23-player squad for the Rugby League World Cup, including the return of James Tedesco and Latrell Mitchell, and six debutants such as Sam Walker and Bradman Best.
- Isaah Yeo will delay surgery to captain the team, which opens its campaign against New Zealand on October 15.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Australia's Kangaroos are preparing for the Rugby League World Cup, with coach Kevin Walters selecting a 23-man squad that includes returning players and new debutants ahead of their opening match against New Zealand.
In short:
Australia has named a 23-strong Kangaroos squad for the Rugby League World Cup.
James Tedesco and Latrell Mitchell are back in the squad, while the Roosters' Sam Walker and Newcastle's Bradman Best among six debutants.
What's next?
The Kangaroos will begin their World Cup against New Zealand on October 15.
Isaah Yeo will delay pectoral surgery to be captain for Australia's Rugby League World Cup campaign, after coach Kevin Walters unveiled a 23-man squad that includes Sydney Roosters halfback Sam Walker.
One of six debutants in the squad, Walker will be locked in a four-way battle with Cameron Munster, Tom Dearden and Mitchell Moses for a spot in the Kangaroos' halves.
Brisbane star Reece Walsh was also selected in Walters' squad and will compete with Clive Churchill medallist James Tedesco for the fullback role.
Latrell Mitchell has also returned to the Test team after battling injuries over recent seasons.
The losing grand finalists, Newcastle, are also represented in the squad, with Bradman Best one of the debutants.
"I'm really happy with the balance of the squad," Walters said.
"We have some real strike power and a significant amount of experience, along with size, power and speed."
"This will be a huge test. I have never before seen the amount of talent spread across the top nations. We are going to need to be at our best to take out the World Cup."
Kangaroos squad:
Bradman Best, Jack Bostock, Blake Brailey, Pat Carrigan, Lindsay Collins, Reuben Cotter, Tom Dearden, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, David Fifita, Harry Grant, Keaon Koloamatangi, Liam Martin, Latrell Mitchell, Mitchell Moses, Cam Munster, Cam Murray, Jacob Preston, Kotoni Staggs, James Tedesco, Tom Trbojevic, Sam Walker, Reece Walsh, Isaah Yeo
AAP/ABC
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What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Australia will begin their Rugby League World Cup campaign against New Zealand on October 15.
Very likely · Within days
Isaah Yeo will serve as captain for Australia in the Rugby League World Cup.
Very likely · Within weeks
Open Questions
- How will the six debutants perform in their first World Cup appearance?
- Will Isaah Yeo's delayed surgery impact his availability or performance during the tournament?
- Which players will secure the starting halves and fullback positions amid the competition described?