Reece Walsh edges out Tedesco in Australia’s Rugby League World Cup semi-final team

Reece Walsh has been selected ahead of veteran James Tedesco as Australia's starting fullback for Sunday's Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Samoa at Allianz Stadium in Sydney. Coach Kevin Walters backed Walsh following standout performances in the group stage, leaving Tedesco on the bench alongside Latrell Mitchell, who missed out on the left centre spot to Bradman Best.

Meanwhile, Kalyn Ponga has been named on New Zealand's extended bench to face Tonga, returning just 22 days after breaking his forearm. In other team news, Samoa replaced the injured Chanel Harris-Tavita with Ronald Volkman, while Tonga named an unchanged lineup for their respective semi-final clash in Newcastle.