Rugby League World Cup news 2026, Australia Kangaroos team vs Cook Islands, selection changes, James Tedesco vs Reece Walsh, halfback and forwards
Australian rugby coach Kevin Walters is preparing his strongest possible lineup for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup match against the Cook Islands. The coach is currently weighing a selection dilemma between fullbacks James Tedesco and Reece Walsh.
Why it matters
Selection decisions for the national team are critical as Australia aims to maintain its dominance in the Rugby League World Cup.
shares Share article Kevin Walters is poised to roll out his best possible Kangaroos line-up for this week’s Rugby League World Cup clash with the Cook Islands.
The Australian coach spent the first two round games experimenting with different players, but says he now plans to pick his strongest team in each of the remaining games.
James Tedesco, Jack Bostock and Bradman Best of the Kangaroos. NRL Imagery
The Kangaroos escaped with a narrow win over New Zealand in week one , and then were pushed by a spirited Fiji side on Sunday night .
“I think we need more from everyone, really,” Walters said after Sunday’s scare.
The coach hinted strongly at his week two team immediately after beating the Kiwis in the first round, but says he hasn’t landed on his line-up for Saturday’s round three clash.
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