Reece Walsh beats James Tedesco to Kangaroos fullback spot
Walsh returns after two months out with an ankle injury as Australia face New Zealand on Thursday.
Reece Walsh has been picked at fullback for Australia's World Cup opener, ahead of James Tedesco. Coach Kevin Walters picked Walsh, even though Tedesco has Clive Churchill medal-winning form.
The game is at Sydney's Allianz Stadium on Thursday, against New Zealand. Walsh's first game in two months follows an ankle injury in Brisbane's premiership defence.
Newcastle's Kalyn Ponga will start at fullback for New Zealand in his Kiwis debut. Dane Gagai, 35, will make his New Zealand debut and become the oldest Kiwis debutant since 1910.
Tedesco and Sam Walker, both Sydney Roosters premiership winners, will watch from the sidelines.
- Sydney's Allianz Stadium
- Venue
- Two months after an ankle injury
- Time out
- Oldest Kiwis debutant since 1910, aged 35
- Gagai's debut record
- Every four years
- Tournament frequency
Why it mattersThursday's game is Australia's opener at a home World Cup, and Walsh returns after two months out.
AustraliaFor Australian sports fans, the game is at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on Thursday, in front of home crowds.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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