Mitch Moses has commented on his decision to represent Australia at this year’s World Cup instead of Lebanon, stating that a Kangaroos jumper was always his preference.

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Moses is set to return to the international arena for the first time since wearing the green and gold in a Pacific Championships game in 2024.

The halfback has also represented Lebanon on the world stage, playing for the Cedars in the last World Cup four years ago.

“Me and Cheiks (Lebanon coach Michael Cheika) have had plenty of chats. We’ve been pretty clear with what my choice was I guess and Australia was my first choice so that’s all it is,” Moses told reporters at Allianz Stadium on Wednesday.

“My first preference was Australia. Obviously I have Lebanese heritage and I loved my time playing for the Cedars but my first preference was to play for Australia and I now get the chance to pull on the No. 7 jersey and represent my country where I was born.

“It’s what I wanted to do since I was a kid you know what I mean? To pull on the green and gold again, you never know when it’s going to be the last time you pull it on. There’s a lot of pride and passion there.

“I think my last game was Pacific Champs two years ago so for me to get that chance again, it’s really special.”

Following the nasty injury to Nathan Cleary, Moses has won the prized Kangaroos No. 7 jersey for Australia’s first match of the tournament against New Zealand.

Tom Dearden and Sam Walker were the other options but Dearden will come off the bench while Walker has been rested after a lengthy finals series.

Walker is set to feature in Australia’s next game, with coach Kevin Walters revealing he’ll use his entire 23-man squad across the first two matches.

Moses understands the quality at his position in the squad, so isn’t taking the opportunity he’s been presented with for granted.

”Some of the best players in the world fight for this jersey and for Kev to give me the nod, it’s exciting,” Moses said.

“Everyone will get their chance. Kev’s been pretty clear with that, so like I said, you never know when it’s gonna be your last.”

Moses has also been enjoying training with Walker, who is fresh off his maiden premiership after leading the Roosters to a grand final win over Newcastle ten days ago.

“There’s no dramas at all (that Walker might start in the next game). He’s 100% deserved his spot. He’s just come off within the comp and is a quality player,” Moses continued.

“We’ve had plenty of good sessions. You’re going up against the best players, so we get a lot of quality out of those sessions and hopefully it can transition into the games.”



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