Tedesco ends 3-year Test exile to challenge Walsh at fullback
The 33-year-old Tedesco plays his first Test in three years to compete for Australia's No.1 fullback spot.
James Tedesco returns to Test rugby after three years away, challenging Reece Walsh for Australia's fullback spot in Sunday's World Cup match against Fiji in Brisbane. Walsh impressed on his injury comeback in the opening win over New Zealand, scoring a try and making a crucial defensive play despite missing six weeks of football.
Tedesco, 33 and the oldest in the squad, has been in top form since 2023: he regained his NSW jersey, won last year's Dally M, and claimed the Clive Churchill medal as Roosters captain this month. Coach Kevin Walters now faces a major selection call.
Tedesco said the battle is not about competing with Walsh but about making the most of his opportunity. "All my focus and energy is into this game," he said.
He will run with a new halves pairing of Sam Walker and Tom Dearden, with Mitchell Moses out through calf injury.
- 33, oldest in squad
- Tedesco age
- Six to seven weeks
- Walsh injury absence
- 2023
- Last Test for Tedesco
- Brisbane, Sunday
- Match location
Why it mattersWalters' choice between youth and experience will set the tone for Australia's fullback play in the tournament's crucial stages.
AustraliaAustralia's fullback selection will affect the team's attacking patterns and kicking game throughout the World Cup.
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