LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
James Tedesco has expressed his desire to be considered for the next Rugby League World Cup, even though he has stepped back from the Ashes to be the best man at his brother's wedding.
After being dropped from the Test team a year ago, the former Kangaroos captain was anticipated to make a return following a preliminary meeting of Australia's selectors on Sunday.
However, the prominent fullback for the Sydney Roosters contacted Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'landys on Monday to notify him that he would not be available for the three-Test tour to England at the end of the season.
"I asked him to think about it, but he believes he wouldn't be doing the best thing by his family if he wasn't there," V'landys stated.
"He was certainly in the team. The selectors will naturally be disappointed. But the beauty about the game is someone will come in straight away.
"It's a shame because he has played so well this year and deserved his place.
"James was very professional about it. He really agonised over it because he wanted to be there."
With Tedesco's withdrawal, it may pave the way for Reece Walsh to receive his first Test call-up when selectors announce their 23-man squad next Monday.