Reece Walsh is locked in as fullback for Australia’s World Cup semi-final, but refuses to accept he has truly beaten out two-time Dally M Medal winner James Tedesco for the Kangaroos’ No.1 jersey.
After coach Kevin Walters split the games between the two superstars in group play, Walsh has been given the nod to start Sunday’s semi-final against Samoa.
However, the 24-year-old rejects the notion that he’s nailed down the position, with Tedesco still waiting in the wings fresh off an NRL premiership with the Sydney Roosters.
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“I wouldn’t say anyone’s cemented on a spot,” Walsh said.
“There’s (six) on the bench now, so I could get hooked and replaced.”
Tedesco sported the No.1 jersey when the Kangaroos won the 2022 World Cup, beating Samoa 30-10 in the final, and the veteran is offering plenty of advice to the new first-choice fullback.
“Building the game early through the middle, and a lot of that push-support stuff,” Walsh told media when asked about Tedesco’s biggest tips for him.
“We’re two completely different players, but to be able to pick his brain about his strengths and what he brings to the team, I’m really grateful to have these opportunities to be around quality players like him.”
That camaraderie characterises the Kangaroos’ camp, with players willing to sacrifice their own playing minutes for the good of the team.
“I wouldn’t say it’s too much competing against each other, I feel like it’s trying to get the best out of the whole team,” the Broncos superstar said.
“You worry about your own job, and focus on doing your role really well for the team.”
Latrell Mitchell is one player taking on a new role, the South Sydney star lining up on the bench for the must-win semi-final.
The centre admits he may be the “worst spectator ever’‘ waiting impatiently on the sideline, but says there are no bruised egos for any of the Kangaroos not starting.
“I don’t think you have an ego in any team,” Mitchell said.
“We all play a part and a role, and we all have a set goal. We’re a collective really chasing something, and that’s the World Cup.’‘
The 29-year-old, who has played 10 Tests for Australia, is happy to offer any advice he can to Kotoni Staggs and Bradman Best, who will start in the centres.
“I love Kotoni, I love Bradman Best, and I just love seeing them play,” Mitchell said.
“They’re unbelievable athletes, and if I can add value or have a presence with them, I take a lot of pride in that, my role is to be a good teammate.”
