Arabic version: تيديسكو يعود قائداً للكانغاروز أمام فيجي

According to ABC News, James Tedesco will captain Australia in his first Kangaroos Test in three years when the side faces Fiji in a Rugby League World Cup match at Brisbane’s Lang Park on Sunday night.

The 33-year-old has been named at fullback and replaces Reece Walsh, who played in Australia’s 24-22 tournament-opening victory over New Zealand. Tedesco’s last Test was the 2023 Pacific Championship final, when the Kangaroos lost 30-0 to New Zealand.

Coach Kevin Walters has rotated his squad as he seeks his best line-up. Halfback Sam Walker, centre Bradman Best, hooker Blayke Brailey and back rower David Fifita are set to make their debuts after being named to start in the 23-player squad.

Walker’s first international appearance also pairs him with Tom Dearden in the halves, with both players competing to replace injured Mitchell Moses in the number-seven jersey for the remainder of the campaign. Walsh, regular captain Isaah Yeo and other players from the win over the Kiwis have been named on the bench or in the extended squad.

The Jillaroos will meet England in Perth on Saturday night, with Sariah Paki and Makenzie Weale named for their international debuts. Paki will become a dual international, while Weale is set to come off the bench.