LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Australian Kangaroos are nearing a decision on their lineup for the first Ashes Test at Wembley Stadium this weekend. They have taken a 24-man squad to England, although it remains uncertain if all players will participate, as has happened in prior tournaments where less than perfection was acceptable during group stages.
Significant decisions are anticipated in the halves and backline for the Kangaroos. Reports indicate that Gehamat Shibasaki will secure a position in the centres over Bradman Best, while Nathan Cleary is expected to win the number seven jersey against competitors such as Mitchell Moses from New South Wales and Queensland's Tom Dearden.
News Corp has stated that Shibasaki will team up with Kotoni Staggs in the centres, with Best being a late addition to the squad alongside Josh Addo-Carr following the withdrawals of Zac Lomax and Xavier Coates. The addition of just one specialist winger suggests that Addo-Carr will be paired with Sydney Roosters rookie Mark Nawaqanitawase on the wing, and Reece Walsh is anticipated to claim the number one position over Dylan Edwards.
In the forward pack, Harry Grant seems poised to take the number nine jersey over Blayke Brailey. Isaah Yeo, serving as captain, will start at lock and is likely to be supported by Patrick Carrigan and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui in the middle positions. This arrangement indicates that Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins, and Keaon Koloamatangi will be on the bench while Lindsay Smith is set to be left out of the squad.