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

James Tedesco and Reece Walsh are locked in a selection battle for Australia's fullback position ahead of the upcoming World Cup opener against New Zealand. Despite captaining the Sydney Roosters to a 19-18 premiership victory and winning the Clive Churchill Medal, Tedesco is not yet guaranteed the starting jersey. Kangaroos head coach Kevin Walters refused to confirm his starting line-up on Monday, retaining strong loyalty toward Walsh.

Walsh has not played in two months due to an ankle injury, but Walters confirmed the Brisbane Broncos star is ready to play. Dylan Edwards was ruled out of contention following knee and shoulder surgeries. The 23-man squad also features captain Isaah Yeo, who will delay surgery on a ruptured pectoral muscle, alongside late inclusion Sam Walker.