Reece Walsh Leads Fullback Race as Latrell Mitchell Pushes for Kangaroos World Cup Recall

With the 2026 State of Origin series now complete and New South Wales crowned champions, attention has shifted to an even bigger prize—the Rugby League World Cup. Australia coach Kevin Walters faces several difficult selection calls, but few positions are generating as much debate as fullback and the centres.

Walsh Still the Front-Runner at Fullback

Despite an inconsistent NRL season with the Brisbane Broncos, Reece Walsh remains the leading candidate to wear the No.1 jersey for the Kangaroos.

Walters recently praised Walsh's performances during last year's Ashes tour, describing the explosive fullback as a player capable of changing a match in an instant. Although he later clarified that no position is guaranteed, Walsh appears to have the inside running thanks to his outstanding international form.

"At the moment, he's put himself right in the selection from what he did on the Kangaroo Tour," Walters said, while acknowledging strong competition from Dylan Edwards and James Tedesco.

Edwards has once again delivered a remarkably consistent season, while veteran Tedesco has enjoyed an impressive resurgence. Both remain genuine contenders, particularly with Walsh unlikely to feature in the NRL finals.

Even so, Walters' public support suggests the Broncos star is still Australia's preferred option heading toward the World Cup.

New Faces Set to Fill Wing Vacancies

Australia's wing stocks have been hit by significant changes ahead of the tournament.

Mark Nawaqanitawase is unavailable after switching codes, while Xavier Coates has been ruled out for the season with an Achilles injury.

Those absences have created opportunities for Selwyn Cobbo and Jojo Fifita, who are emerging as the favourites to claim the starting wing positions.

Cobbo has rediscovered his best form since joining the Dolphins and impressed throughout the Origin series, while Fifita has strengthened his credentials with consistent performances for Queensland.

Jacob Kiraz was also considered a leading candidate, but the Bulldogs flyer is expected to represent Lebanon at the World Cup instead.

Latrell Mitchell's Return Looks Increasingly Likely

The battle in the centres could prove just as fascinating.

Kotoni Staggs remains highly regarded by Walters despite missing the deciding Origin match and is widely expected to retain his place in the squad.

The bigger question surrounds his potential partner.

Gehamat Shibasaki has struggled to replicate last year's breakout performances, opening the door for Latrell Mitchell to force his way back into the national team.

When fully fit, Mitchell remains one of rugby league's most destructive players. His ability to dominate big games gives him a clear advantage over most rivals, making him the leading candidate to reclaim a starting role.

Bradman Best is also firmly in contention and would likely step into the side should Mitchell fail to prove his fitness before the tournament.

Tough Decisions Still Ahead

While several positions appear close to being settled, Walters still has plenty to consider before naming his final World Cup squad.

The competition between Walsh, Edwards and Tedesco at fullback remains one of the biggest selection battles, while Mitchell's fitness could ultimately determine the Kangaroos' backline.

With the World Cup fast approaching, Australia's depth ensures that every remaining NRL match could have a major influence on Walters' final decisions.