LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Dylan Edwards, the Penrith Panthers hero, has been confirmed to make his debut for the Australian Kangaroos on Saturday against Samoa.
Edwards received a late call-up to Mal Meninga's squad, which led him to postpone his planned holiday with his partner and two daughters.
Initially overlooked for the Kangaroos squad, Edwards was brought in as a replacement for Josh Addo-Carr, who was suspended.
In an interview with Channel 9, Edwards expressed his commitment to representing his country, stating, "I was packing as I got the phone call, so I cancelled all of that and am focused on this.
(Footy) is a job, it's a dream." He will be playing on the wing alongside debutants Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs, who will start at wing and centre respectively.
Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow will complete the new-look backline as the other centre.
With the absence of key players such as Addo-Carr, Latrell Mitchell, and Jack Wighton, the Australian backline will have a different composition from the one that secured victory in the World Cup last year.
However, James Tedesco has retained his position as fullback, pushing Edwards to the wing.
Despite a somewhat underwhelming season, Tedesco's experience and skill have earned him the starting position.
As Dylan Edwards prepares to make his debut for Australia, he is ready to embrace the opportunity and contribute to the team's success on the field.
With his holiday plans temporarily on hold, Edwards is solely focused on his role as a Kangaroo and is determined to make the most of this exciting opportunity.