Big mystery remains as Walters names Kangaroos squad
Coach Kevin Walters has announced the Australian Kangaroos squad for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup. The selection features a competitive battle for the halfback position and includes several players returning from injury.
Why it matters
The squad announcement is a major event in international rugby league, impacting team strategy and national sports representation.
- 1.55am . First published October 4, 2026 - 8.33pm
shares Share article Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters has unveiled his squad for the Rugby League World Cup , leaving plenty of mystery around his playmakers.
With champion halfback Nathan Cleary sidelined due to a leg injury, Walters has selected Sam Walker , Mitchell Moses , Tom Dearden and Cameron Munster in the 23-man squad, with all four men to battle for positions.
Sam Walker after winning Sunday’s grand final. Getty Images
Munster will likely play five-eighth, which leaves a three-way shootout for the No.7 jumper between Walker, Moses and Dearden.
Walters has also picked two specialist fullbacks in Reece Walsh and James Tedesco – fresh off an emotional Clive Churchill Medal win after the Roosters’ premiership victory – in his wider playing group for the tournament.
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