Brief

Kangaroos overhaul lineup for Fiji clash in Brisbane

Kevin Walters fields a revamped side with Sam Walker debuting as halfback and James Tedesco captaining.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 26 Oct 2026 02:23:36 GMT

Australia announced a ten‑player overhaul for its Rugby League World Cup quarter‑final against Fiji in Brisbane, with halfback Sam Walker making his Kangaroos debut, SMH reported.

What happened

At 7:13 pm local time, coach Kevin Walters confirmed the changes, retaining only three starters from the previous win over New Zealand: winger Jack Bostock, centre Kotoni Staggs and prop Keaon Koloamatangi. Reece Walsh was dropped from the extended six‑man interchange bench and replaced by dummy‑half Harry Grant at 7:05 pm.

What the reports add

SMH noted that Walker, the Roosters premiership‑winning halfback, will partner Tom Dearden in the halves, while James Tedesco moves to fullback, takes the captaincy and replaces Walsh in the jersey. The article also listed the full Australian and Fijian squads, naming players such as Bradman Best, Tom Trbojevic and Latrell Mitchell for Australia and Apisai Koroisau (captain) for Fiji.

What was said

According to SMH, Tedesco said of Walker, “He’s had a big year, he debuted for the Maroons and now the Kangaroos. He’s just excited to get out there.”

How it came about

The changes follow Australia’s 24‑22 victory over New Zealand a week earlier and Fiji’s 40‑12 win over the Cook Islands, as highlighted in SMH’s live coverage. Walters’ side entered the match as heavy favourites, with bookmakers listing Fiji as $50 outsiders.

Key facts

Australia made ten changes to the Kangaroos lineup for the Fiji match. (smh.com.au)
Sam Walker debuted as halfback, partnering Tom Dearden. (smh.com.au)
James Tedesco moved to fullback and captained the side. (smh.com.au)
Reece Walsh was dropped from the interchange bench, replaced by Harry Grant. (smh.com.au)