Superstar fullback James Tedesco is reportedly battling a niggling injury knock which Kevin Walters has revealed could be a major factor in the Kangaroos’ No.1 selection decision.
According to a Code Sports report that emerged on Sunday, Broncos gun Reece Walsh was the frontrunner to retain his spot after leading Australia to an Ashes victory in 2025.
That was despite Tedesco’s monumental season with the Roosters, spearheading their premiership push that saw him win the Clive Churchill Medal in his team’s grand final win.
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However, after his club campaign, 9News’ Danny Weidler revealed the 33-year-old was spotted at training in recent days with a bandage over his knee.
“I went to training for a little look… look, they had James Tedesco on the sideline with his knee in a bandage,” Weidler said on the Big Sports Breakfast on Monday.
“So maybe it was just a bit of wear and tear after the grand final. Teddy I think had a very good week of celebrating.
“And then now we are seeing that Reece is firmly back in the frame, they both trained at fullback yesterday and took turns so Kevvie has got to make up his mind.”
Walsh also has endured injury issues of his own, having gone under the knife on a syndesmosis injury he suffered in the Broncos’ Round 24 tie with the Warriors.
Walters was quizzed on Weidler’s reveal, explaining Tedesco’s lengthy season could influence his decision on who wears the No.1 on Thursday night against the Kiwis.
“That’s what I mentioned before, those players who played in the grand final have played consistently every week,” Walters said.
“They haven’t had a spell and the grand final was just seven days ago. They have been through a pretty arduous campaign.
“They are all experienced players, James certainly… they know what their body can get through and can’t get through. James’ performance in the grand final was next level wasn’t it.”
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Walters also responded to the critics of his looming decision, revealing that his fullback decision isn’t set in stone.
“Everyone has got opinions on who should be playing and not playing, which is great. But yeah, we will have another training run this morning and make a decision on the back of that,” Walters said.
“I’m comfortable with either playing, it’s a tough decision to make, and the halves as well with Sam Walker and Mitchell Moses it’s another big decision to make.
“This is the first of three rounds to make it through to the finals and I am sure everyone will get their chance over the three games… it’s not like the best team is easily selected.
“Depending on who you speak to and what opinions they have, those that are close to me, I certainly respect their opinion. I will speak to the senior players as well.
“I’m going to give everyone an opportunity throughout the first three rounds to make sure they can put their best foot forward and then we will make some decisions.
“But I am comfortable with any of the 23 players playing… we are pretty blessed here with the Kangaroos.”
As aforementioned, Australia’s first World Cup clash with New Zealand will serve as a huge test, with both teams considered the heavy favourites to win the tournament.
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Walters made it clear his side won’t be “underestimating” the Kiwis, who have welcomed big-name players such as Kalyn Ponga and Dane Gagai into their team after an allegiance switch.
“They have (a strong side) and that’s normal for the Kiwis, I don’t think I ever played against a weak Kiwis side,” Walters said.
“They are a great rugby league playing nation, they have wonderful, world class players across all of their positions. So we are certainly not underestimating or taking anything for granted.
“But this is a very strong Kiwis side and we will respect them accordingly.”
New Zealand’s forward pack also boasts staggering depth, with two of Moses Leota, Naufahu Whyte, Erin Clark, James Fisher-Harris and Joseph Tapine set to start on the bench.
“We are well aware of that. That’s something that our middle forwards, in particular, need to aware of,” Walters said.
“But if you look at our side we have some powerful athletes and some big forwards that can certainly create some havoc if given the time and space.”
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