Teddy versus Reece: The battle to be Australia’s World Cup No.1

Sydney Roosters captain James Tedesco is competing with incumbent Reece Walsh for Australia's starting fullback position ahead of the World Cup opener against New Zealand. Despite Tedesco winning the Clive Churchill Medal in Sunday's 19-18 grand final victory over the Knights, Australia coach Kevin Walters refused to confirm the starting lineup, noting Walsh is fully recovered from an ankle injury.

Walters announced the 23-man Kangaroos squad on Monday, which also includes fullback contenders Tom Trbojevic and Latrell Mitchell. Captain Isaah Yeo confirmed he will delay surgery on a ruptured pectoral muscle to play, while Roosters halfback Sam Walker earned selection after returning from an ankle injury.