The Kangaroos' selection for the World Cup is a hot topic, with coach Kevin Walters having a tough job ahead of him. The team's state of play is a complex puzzle, with many players vying for a spot. Here's a breakdown of the key positions and the players in contention, with a focus on the three-way battle for the fullback position.
Fullback
Reece Walsh, the incumbent, is a strong contender, with his coach praising his ability to turn a game on its head. However, there's a three-way battle for the position, with Dylan Edwards and James Tedesco also in the running. The former's form has been up and down, and the latter's recent performance for the Blues is a factor. The coach's loyalty to players who performed well in the Ashes tour could be a deciding factor.
Wingers
The Kangaroos are in a tricky situation with Mark Nawaqanitawase and Xavier Coates ruled out. Selwyn Cobbo has emerged as a strong contender, but the other spot is up for grabs. Jojo Fifita and Jacob Kiraz are in the running, with the latter's desire to play for Lebanon a potential issue. The coach's decision will be influenced by the players' form and their ability to partner Cobbo.
Centres
Kotoni Staggs is a strong contender, but his teammate Gehamat Shibasaki's poor form is a concern. Latrell Mitchell and Bradman Best are also in the mix, with the former's game-changing ability a key factor. The coach's admiration for Staggs and Mitchell's potential to force his way in could be a deciding factor.
Halfback
Nathan Cleary is the incumbent, but Sam Walker is a strong challenger. The coach's respect for Cleary and the latter's outstanding form in the Origin series could be a deciding factor. The clubs' performance in the finals will also play a role.
Props
Tino Fa'asuamaleaui's potential defection to Samoa is a factor, but his loyalty to Australia could see him stay. Patrick Carrigan is a strong contender, and the coach's loyalty to players who performed well in the Ashes tour could be a deciding factor.
Hooker
Harry Grant is the starting hooker, but the back-up position is up for grabs. Ben Hunt and Api Koroisau are in the running, with the former's time in the sun likely over. The coach's decision will be influenced by the players' form and their team's performance in the NRL premiership.
Second-rowers
Hudson Young and Liam Martin are strong contenders, with their performance in the Origin series a key factor. The coach's admiration for their partnership and their ability to terrorise Queensland could be a deciding factor.
Lock
Isaah Yeo is the captain and lock, but Cameron Murray's impact off the bench is a factor. The coach's decision will be influenced by the players' form and their versatility.
Bench
The utility bench spots are up for grabs, with Ethan Strange, Blayke Brailey, Reuben Cotter, and Lindsay Smith in the running. The coach's decision will be influenced by the players' form and their ability to fill multiple roles.
Verdicts
The predicted team includes Reece Walsh, Selwyn Cobbo, Kotoni Staggs, Latrell Mitchell, Jojo Fifita, Cameron Munster, Nathan Cleary, Patrick Carrigan, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Liam Martin, Hudson Young, Isaah Yeo, Blayke Brailey, Cameron Murray, Reuben Cotter, and Lindsay Smith. The coach's loyalty to players who performed well in the Ashes tour and his admiration for certain players could be a key factor in his decision-making process.
