Tedesco was included in the Australian squad after missing last year’s Ashes series to attend his brother’s wedding. His barnstorming performance in the grand final — which included a new decider record for run metres — put him front of mind, but Walters would not confirm any starting positions on Monday.
“Teddy was very good on Sunday; he loves to carry the ball, and he brings that high work rate to the team,” Walters said. “Teddy has good form on the board. But I’ll sit down with the senior players, which will probably include Teddy, and we’ll come up with the right team to take on New Zealand.”
Walsh, the Broncos fullback, has not played for 61 days due to an ankle injury. Walters had previously declared Walsh the front-runner for the position midway through this year, when the Broncos were struggling to defend their NRL title. The coach was pressed on his loyalty to Walsh. “Have you not watched him play?” Walters said. “It’s a respect and loyalty [thing] I have with players.”
The selection debate was simplified when Dylan Edwards was ruled out after knee surgery and a shoulder reconstruction, removing a three-into-two headache. Australia opens its World Cup campaign against New Zealand next Thursday at Allianz Stadium.