NamibiaAustralia Names Rugby League World Cup Squad
Penrith star Isaah Yeo was named captain for Australia's defence of their Rugby League World Cup title, while Latrell Mitchell returns after a long absence. The team will compete in a slimmed-down competition featuring 10 teams from October 15-November 15.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Penrith star Isaah Yeo was named captain for Australia's defence of their Rugby League World Cup title, which will take place from October 15-November 15. Yeo will delay pectoral surgery to lead the team out in their group stage opener in Sydney against New Zealand on October 16.
Coach Kevin Walters included six debutants in a 23-man squad for the tournament. Walters said he is happy with the balance of the squad, which has some real strike power and a significant amount of experience, along with size, power and speed.
Latrell Mitchell has been recalled for Australia's Rugby League World Cup title defence after being sidelined for three-and-a-half months with a debilitating nerve injury. Mitchell is set for his first Kangaroos appearance since the 2022 World Cup final, where he scored a double in Australia's 30-10 victory over Samoa.
Other notable returns include James Tedesco, who earned a recall after leading the Sydney Roosters to Australia's National Rugby League title, and Manly outside back Tom Trbojevic. The team will compete in Group A alongside New Zealand, Fiji and the Cook Islands.
The tournament features 10 teams, with England headlining Group B with Samoa and Lebanon, while Tonga, Papua New Guinea and France fill out Group C. Coach Kevin Walters said this will be a huge Test, with a significant amount of talent spread across the top nations.
Yeo said he has been up front and honest with Coach Kevin Walters about his injury, and would only put his hand up if he thought he could contribute and perform at the level that's needed for the country. The squad includes players from various teams, including the Sydney Roosters, South Sydney Rabbitohs, and Penrith Panthers.
The Australian team is preparing to face tough competition in the tournament. Coach Kevin Walters will leave his job after the World Cup to take over at English powerhouse St Helens.
The Rugby League World Cup will take place in Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea from October 15-November 15. The tournament will feature 10 teams competing in three groups.
Key facts
- Isaah Yeo was named captain for Australia's Rugby League World Cup title defence
- Latrell Mitchell returns to the team after a long absence due to injury
- The tournament features 10 teams competing in three groups
- The Australian team will compete in Group A alongside New Zealand, Fiji and the Cook Islands
Three perspectives
Neutral
The Australian team is preparing to face tough competition in the Rugby League World Cup. The tournament will feature 10 teams competing in three groups. The team's performance will be closely watched by fans and critics alike.
Positive
The return of Latrell Mitchell and the inclusion of six debutants in the squad are positive signs for the Australian team. The team's balance of experience and youth could be a key factor in their success in the tournament.
Negative
The injury to Isaah Yeo could be a concern for the team, despite his decision to delay surgery. The team will also face tough competition from other teams in the tournament, including England and New Zealand.
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