Kangaroos selection committee faces five-eighth decision for World Cup tournament
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 3:24 AM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026

Kevin Walters faces a selection challenge for the Kangaroos' five-eighth position ahead of the upcoming World Cup, which begins on October 15. Incumbent Cameron Munster has held the role for years but enters the selection period following a difficult season with the Melbourne Storm and recent contract uncertainty. While Munster remains a strong candidate due to his experience, rising competition from other players has complicated the decision. Ethan Strange has emerged as a top contender following a strong performance at the State of Origin level earlier this season. Other players including Tom Dearden, Ezra Mam, and Braydon Trindall remain under consideration for the squad. The selection process will likely be influenced by performance during the approaching NRL finals series.
- •The World Cup tournament for Australia commences on October 15.
- •Cameron Munster is the incumbent five-eighth despite a statistically challenging season.
- •Ethan Strange is viewed as the primary challenger for the starting number six jersey.
- •Tom Dearden, Ezra Mam, and Braydon Trindall are listed as additional candidates.
- •NRL finals matches will impact final selection decisions for the international squad.
- 3:24 AMZero Tackle NRL — Kangaroos World Cup selection state of play: Five-eighth
"The number six jersey could be Kevin Walters' toughest question.
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