A World Cup squad selection featuring notable surprise inclusions has been made by the Kangaroos, with the final roster to be determined after the grand final.
The tournament, set to commence in Sydney on October 15, has prompted all participating nations to submit extended squads, though there was no requirement for formal announcements.
While teams like Fiji and New Zealand have disclosed their selections, Australia has so far kept its 40-player pool relatively private.
Reports from News Corp suggest the squad includes both Reece Walsh and Dylan Lucas, who have recently dealt with injuries.
Though both players are expected to recover in time for the World Cup, their absence from competitive play for several months leading up to the tournament raises questions about their game readiness.
Walsh's position is not assured, as both Dylan Edwards and James Tedesco, who missed the Ashes team, have also been named; Edwards previously toured with Australia.
Walsh was the starting fullback during the Ashes series, playing in all three matches.
The selection also includes several prospective debutants, such as David Fifita and Fletcher Sharpe, with Fifita potentially representing Tonga as he has in the past.
His impressive form with the Rabbitohs during 2026 has sparked talks of a considerable pay increase before his contract ends.
Additionally, Latrell Mitchell, who has recently recovered from injury, and the injury-prone Tom Trbojevic are in contention for Test recalls.
Most of the players from the recent Ashes squad are included, although Mark Nawaqanitawase and Angus Crichton were excluded due to upcoming rugby union commitments.