In his first international match since 2023, James Tedesco has delivered a masterclass to help Australia survive an almighty scare from Fiji to book a spot in the World Cup semi-finals.<\/p>\n
Holding the lead several times throughout the 80 minutes, Fiji came agonisingly close to pulling off one of the biggest World Cup upsets in recent memory as they pushed the defending champions to the brink.<\/p>\n
Watch Australia\u2019s Tour of South Africa Live & Exclusive on Fox Cricket, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1<\/a>.<\/p>\n However, whenever the Kangaroos found themselves under pressure, Tedesco stood tall and produced the plays to help Australia regain control of the contest.<\/p>\n WHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.<\/p>\n Finishing with 146 running metres, five tackle busts, three line-break assists and four try assists, the performance comes less than a month after he claimed the 2026 Clive Churchill Medal.<\/p>\n \u201cTedesco is untouchable,\u201d Andrew Voss said on Channel Seven.<\/p>\n CRAWLS\u2019 PLAYER RATINGS: Star on the chopping block; No.7 frontrunner emerges<\/a><\/p>\n BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 25: James Tedesco of Australia passes during the 2026 Men’s Rugby League World Cup match between Australia Kangaroos and Fiji at Suncorp Stadium on October 25, 2026 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde\/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n Tedesco\u2019s former teammate Luke Keary added, \u201cBrilliant work from James Tedesco.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJust when you think they are out of their feet, Tedesco goes bang.\u201d<\/p>\n His form also creates a selection headache for coach Kevin Walters, with Reece Walsh still firmly in the frame for the Kangaroos No.1 jersey come finals time.<\/p>\n The dilemma will give selectors plenty to think about heading into the final group-stage match against the Cook Islands and the remainder of the tournament.<\/p>\n Tom Trbojevic also scored three tries on the wing for the Kangaroos, while Patrick Carrigan was instrumental from the interchange bench, with 104 running metres and 17 tackles.<\/p>\n