The Kangaroos are set for a 10-day shootout for spots in the first Test side as coach Kevin Walters weighs up a number of crucial selection decisions before the opening match of the Ashes series.

The team flew out for London on Wednesday morning, leaving little more than a week for players to prove they belong in the side for the clash with England at Wembley on October 25. 

Among the toughest calls will be who lines up at fullback and the makeup of the halves. 

Dylan Edwards is the incumbent No.1, but Reece Walsh finished the season with an electrifying run of form that culminated in a Clive Churchill Medal and Broncos premiership.


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While the competition is fierce, captain Isaah Yeo said the battle for places in the 17 will ultimately benefit the side in the series opener.

“It’s not just the fullback battle, it’s in every position,” Yeo told NRL.com. “It’s the benefit of having such a big squad and having so many superstars in our game. We’ve got 24 players who would be the first picked in their club sides.

“Everyone wants to play, everyone wants to be walking out on Wembley Stadium representing their country. That creates competition and that’s healthy in any environment. 

“It’s particularly important here where you need to be at your best. You can’t miss a day and that heightens everything.”

Walters is blessed with a wealth of options for his halves, with multiple possible combinations.

Cameron Munster and Nathan Cleary led Australia to World Cup glory in England in 2022. Mitchell Moses and Tom Dearden combined to secure the Pacific Championships crown last year.


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Cleary and Moses were brilliant together in the first State of Origin clash this season before Moses injured his calf prior to Game Two. Munster and Dearden then took control of the interstate series to lead Queensland to a come-from-behind victory.

The early signs suggest Cleary and Munster will combine in the first Test, with Dearden to wear jumper No.14 as the bench utility.

While Walters can only pick two starting halves, Cleary said it’s up to all four players to contribute to Australia’s success throughout the series.

“It’s something to work on in camp and I’m really excited with the halves picked,” Cleary said. “They’re all at the top of their game and we can all collaborate together to improve each other. 

“Origin combinations might help but the important thing about playing for Australia is you put Origin to the side and now we’re Australians and want to put our best foot forward. Whatever the best combination is, that’s the one that will be out on the field but it’s about elevating everyone together. 

“Even if you’re not in the 17, it’s about getting around each other and helping each other and I’m looking forward to learning off these guys.”

With 24 players in the squad, multiple are set to miss out on a place in the team each week.

Ethan Strange has been picked as a development player and is expected to use the tour as a learning experience, while Blayke Brailey will deputise hooker Harry Grant.

Mark Nawaqanitawase, Josh Addo-Carr are the leading contenders to line up on the wing, with Gehamat Shibasaki, Kotoni Staggs and Bradman Best battling it out for the two centre positions.


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Kangaroos rookie Jacob Preston finds himself in a three-way battle with Angus Crichton and Hudson Young for a starting back-row position.

Simply earning selection in the squad was a dream come true, but the Bulldog declared he won’t be satisfied until he runs on to the field in the green and gold jumper.

“I was lost for words when Kevie told me I was in the squad,” Preston said. “Just to be given the opportunity means so much to me. 

“It’s your goal as a kid wanting to play NRL and the No.1 thing is to play for your country. I’m very grateful to be in the squad but it doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to play. 

“If I do get the opportunity, I won’t let anyone down. I’m keen to soak it all up and learn as much as possible.”