Walters plays down Mitchell benching ahead of Kangaroos semi-final
Coach Kevin Walters says benched Latrell Mitchell is elite and will play off the bench in Sunday's semi-final.
Latrell Mitchell has lost his left centre starting position to Bradman Best over the past two games, but Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters insists the elite player remains crucial to the team. Walters said he would use Mitchell off the bench with instructions to create plays, saying Mitchell is a creator who can do things few others can.
Mitchell is hard to handle and highly skilled. Best has earned the starting role through consistently strong recent form, carrying the ball powerfully and defending well.
Walters said both players can play across multiple positions. The Kangaroos head into Sunday's World Cup semi-final at Allianz Stadium.
- World Cup semi-final
- Competition
- Allianz Stadium
- Venue
- Bradman Best
- Replacement
- Sunday
- Day
Why it mattersHow Walters deploys his elite talent, including the benched Mitchell, will affect Australia's chances of progressing in the World Cup semi-final.
AustraliaFor Australians who follow rugby league, this team selection decision impacts their hopes for the Kangaroos' performance in the World Cup semi-final.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
