Reece Walsh could take on both long-range kicking and goal-kicking duties for Australia after Mitch Moses was ruled out of the Rugby League World Cup.
Moses injured his calf during Australia's 24-22 win over New Zealand on Thursday night, and his withdrawal was confirmed on Saturday.
Coach Kevin Walters selected Canberra five-eighth Ethan Strange as his replacement, despite calls to add Panthers winger Tom Jenkins.
Tournament rules require a replacement for an injured player to be like-for-like, making Strange eligible but Jenkins ineligible.
Moses' absence is expected to strengthen Walsh's bid to keep the starting fullback role ahead of James Tedesco.
Strange, Cameron Munster, Sam Walker and Tom Dearden lack Walsh's long-kicking strength, while Munster, Walker and Dearden are more noted for short kicks.
With one of Walker or Dearden likely to partner Munster in the halves during the finals, Walsh may be needed to handle most long kicks.
Walsh took over goal-kicking after Moses left the New Zealand match. Walker would likely kick goals if selected at halfback, while Dearden would not.
Latrell Mitchell is another option, though his conversion rate for South Sydney this year was poor.
Tedesco will play fullback against Fiji next week as Walker partners Dearden and Walsh and Munster rest.
He will hope to press his case for the major matches, but his chances appear reduced; a move to the wing remains possible if Tom Trbojevic struggles or is injured.