Nathan Cleary's season-ending injury has created an opening in Australia's halfback contest, with Sam Walker and Mitchell Moses able to press their claims.
Walker returned from an ankle injury to steer the Sydney Roosters past the Dolphins in the preliminary final and into a grand final against Newcastle. One more strong performance could put him in contention for a World Cup starting spot at No.7.
Australia coach Kevin Walters said selectors weigh three considerations equally: past performances in the national jersey, State of Origin form and the finals series.
"Previous history in the jersey, Origin form and what happens in the finals series are equally important," Walters told AAP.
Walker impressed on his State of Origin debut, earning man of the match in game two of NSW's 2-1 series victory. Walters said Walker was back in selection discussions after initially being considered unavailable.
"Sam's name will be brought up in the selection meetings for sure. We thought he was eliminated, but with his re-emergence he has put himself back in the picture.
"He can come up with the right play, and his kicking game is so good."
Moses previously played halfback for Australia in 2024 when Cleary was out, and Walters praised his form in the green and gold and on last year's Ashes tour. North Queensland co-captain Tom Dearden is another option, having impressed for Queensland and played six Tests over the past two years.
Former Test half Greg Alexander said Walker had improved on last season and was ready for Australia. He singled out the halfback's defence and broader attacking game.
"Sam is a smaller player, but his defence has been very good," Alexander told AAP.
"This year he is a better ball player," he said.