AustraliaKangaroos Squad Announced
Six debutants named in Kevin Walters' 23-man squad for the Rugby League World Cup, with Latrell Mitchell making his return to the team. Tom Trbojevic is also set to play his first Test match since 2024.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Kevin Walters has announced his 23-man squad for the Rugby League World Cup, with six debutants named. The squad includes Bradman Best, Jack Bostock, David Fifita, Sam Walker, Jacob Preston, and Blayke Brailey.
Latrell Mitchell has made his long-awaited return to the team after withdrawing from last year's Ashes tour due to injuries. He also battled injuries this season but returned in the latter stages to power South Sydney's finals push.
Tom Trbojevic is in line to play his first Test match for the Kangaroos since 2024, having put his lingering hamstring issues behind him. The halfback jumper left vacant by the injured Nathan Cleary is still up for grabs, with Sam Walker and Mitchell Moses named in the squad.
Walters said he had to find a position for Walker in the side, given his form. He also called Moses a 'big-game player' and said their conversations had been 'nothing but positive'.
The race for the fullback jumper is also still open, with James Tedesco and Reece Walsh both earning selection. Walters said Tedesco played well in his last game, but the decision on who will start is still to be made.
The squad announcement marks a new era for Test football, with a number of new players given the opportunity to represent Australia. The team will face New Zealand in their tournament opener.
The Jillaroos squad was also announced, with coach Jess Skinner making some tough selections. The team will be looking to make a strong impression in the tournament.
Key facts
- Six debutants named in Kevin Walters' 23-man squad
- Latrell Mitchell returns to the team after injury
- Tom Trbojevic set to play his first Test match since 2024
- Halfback and fullback jumpers still up for grabs
Three perspectives
Neutral
The squad announcement provides a mix of experience and new talent, with a number of players given the opportunity to represent Australia. The team's performance in the tournament will be closely watched. The Rugby League World Cup is set to be a highly competitive tournament.
Positive
The inclusion of six debutants in the squad is a positive sign for the future of Australian rugby league. The return of Latrell Mitchell and Tom Trbojevic will also be a boost to the team. The squad has a good balance of experience and youth.
Negative
The injury to Nathan Cleary is a blow to the team, and the lack of clarity on the halfback and fullback jumpers may cause some uncertainty. The team will need to work hard to gel together and perform well in the tournament.
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