Nathan Cleary’s injury has ruled him out of the Kangaroos’ end-of-year Test matches, but that’s not the only surprise in the Australian squad announcement. James Tedesco, the incumbent Australian skipper, and Daly Cherry-Evans have been dropped from the team ¹. This shocking move comes after last year’s disappointing 30-0 loss to New Zealand in the Pacific Championships.
Isaah Yeo, the Penrith Panthers captain, has been named as the new Kangaroos skipper, with Melbourne hooker Harry Grant appointed as vice-captain ¹. Dylan Edwards, also from the Panthers, will take over the No. 1 jersey from Tedesco. The squad includes eight potential debutants, such as Parramatta halfback Mitchell Moses, Penrith forward Lindsay Smith, and Newcastle centre Bradman Best ¹.
Coach Mal Meninga explained that the omissions were due to a combination of factors, including form, versatility, and a focus on the 2026 World Cup ¹. The new-look Kangaroos squad will face Tonga in Brisbane on October 18 and then take on New Zealand in Christchurch on October 27. With these changes, the team is looking to bounce back from last year’s disappointing performance and start fresh with a new leadership and lineup ¹.
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