Chronological coverage updated 5th October 2026 03:06.
Update 1 · 5th October 2026
Sam Walker and Isaah Yeo headline Australia's Rugby League World Cup squads
Isaah Yeo will delay pectoral surgery to captain Australia in their upcoming Rugby League World Cup campaign after head coach Kevin Walters named a 23-man Kangaroos squad featuring six debutants.
Among the new additions is Sydney Roosters halfback Sam Walker, who joins the national squad fresh from NRL grand final victory. Walker faces competition for a spot in the halves alongside Cameron Munster, Tom Dearden, and Mitchell Moses.
Brisbane Broncos fullback Reece Walsh was also selected and will compete with Clive Churchill medallist James Tedesco for the starting position, while Latrell Mitchell returns to the Test team following recent injury struggles.
Squad balance and tournament expectations
The Guardian reportedly quoted Kevin Walters (Australia head coach) as saying: “I’m really happy with the balance of the squad,”.
The Guardian reportedly quoted Kevin Walters (Australia head coach) as saying: “This will be a huge test. I have never before seen the amount of talent spread across the top nations. We are going to need to be at our best to take out the World Cup.”.
Jillaroos squad named
In the women's competition, Sydney Roosters captain Isabelle Kelly will lead the Jillaroos for the first time under head coach Jess Skinner. The NRLW champion Roosters contribute eight players to the 23-player squad, including uncapped players Sariah Paki and Jocelyn Kelleher.
North Queensland Cowboys prop Makenzie Weale is the third uncapped selection, while grand finalists Brisbane Broncos provide three players, including three-time Dally M medallist Tamika Upton.
The men's World Cup campaign opens on 15 October when Australia take on New Zealand in Sydney, while the Women's World Cup begins the following day with Australia hosting Samoa at CommBank Stadium.
- Isaah Yeo delays surgery to lead a Kangaroos squad containing six debutants.
- Isabelle Kelly is named Jillaroos captain as eight Sydney Roosters players earn selection.
- The tournament begins in Sydney on 15 October.
