Mal Meninga, head coach of the Australian Kangaroos, has made a bold decision ahead of the Pacific Championships, announcing a major squad shake-up that sees incumbent captain James Tedesco dropped from the team.
In a surprising move, Tedesco, along with State of Origin captains Jake Trbojevic and Daly Cherry-Evans, was left out of the 21-man squad, signaling a new era for the national team.
Meninga has named Penrith Panthers skipper Isaah Yeo as the new Kangaroos captain, with Melbourne Storm hooker Harry Grant appointed as vice-captain.
Additionally, Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards will take over Tedesco’s position as Australia’s No.1.
“This decision was made based on Origin performances and finals form,” Meninga explained. “Dylan Edwards has been waiting in the wings for a while, and after considering his form and versatility, we felt it was the right time for him to step into the role.”
The selection also marks the debut of several players, with eight potential first-time Kangaroos, including Mitchell Moses (Parramatta), Lindsay Smith (Penrith), and Bradman Best (Newcastle).
Meninga highlighted the importance of versatility and the team’s future, particularly with an eye on the 2026 World Cup.
Among other omissions are Nathan Cleary and Cameron Munster, who were unavailable for selection due to upcoming surgeries.
Newcastle fullback Kalyn Ponga was also excluded following a saga over his availability, with Meninga reiterating that Edwards had been selected as the top fullback in the game.
The new-look Kangaroos will take on Tonga in Brisbane on 18 October and face New Zealand in Christchurch on 27 October.
Australia Squad: Mitch Barnett*, Matt Burton, Bradman Best*, Patrick Carrigan, Xavier Coates*, Lindsay Collins, Reuben Cotter, Angus Crichton, Tom Dearden*, Dylan Edwards, Harry Grant (vc), Ben Hunt, Zac Lomax*, Liam Martin, Mitchell Moses*, Cameron Murray, Reece Robson, Lindsay Smith*, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Tom Trbojevic, Isaah Yeo (captain).
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