The Roosters' 2026 NRL title gave James Tedesco an extended rest before the World Cup, after Reece Walsh was chosen at fullback against New Zealand.
Walsh's selection drew scrutiny because Tedesco appeared to have been passed over, but Tedesco said there was no rivalry between them over the number one jersey.
For Australia's Fiji group-stage match, coach Kevin Walters has rested Walsh and captain Isaah Yeo, bringing Tedesco in at fullback.
Speaking to nrl.com, Tedesco described the opportunity as an honour, having captained Australia at the previous World Cup.
"Captaining your country is the highest honour, and I had the pleasure of doing that at the last World Cup, so getting another shot in the Australian jersey is very special to me," Tedesco said.
The 33-year-old won the Clive Churchill Medal in the Roosters' grand final victory over the Newcastle Knights and scored the winning try for New South Wales in Game 1.
His selection for the Blues had drawn criticism earlier in the year.