Isaah Yeo will delay pectoral surgery to be captain for Australia’s Rugby League World Cup campaign, after coach Kevin Walters unveiled a 23-man squad that includes Sydney Roosters halfback Sam Walker.

One of six debutants in the squad, Walker will be locked in a four-way battle with Cameron Munster, Tom Dearden and Mitchell Moses for a spot in the Kangaroos’ halves.

Brisbane star Reece Walsh was also selected in Walters’ squad and will compete with Clive Churchill medallist James Tedesco for the fullback role.

Latrell Mitchell has also returned to the Test team after battling injuries over recent seasons.

“I’m really happy with the balance of the squad,” Walters said.

“We have some real strike power and a significant amount of experience, along with size, power and speed.

“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.”

Kangaroos squad: Bradman Best, Jack Bostock, Blake Brailey, Pat Carrigan, Lindsay Collins, Reuben Cotter, Tom Dearden, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, David Fifita, Harry Grant, Keaon Koloamatangi, Liam Martin, Latrell Mitchell, Mitchell Moses, Cam Munster, Cam Murray, Jacob Preston, Kotoni Staggs, James Tedesco, Tom Trbojevic, Sam Walker, Reece Walsh, Isaah Yeo.

Big calls as Walters begins a new Kangaroos era

The squad represents the first major selection statement of the Kevin Walters era, with Australia preparing to defend the World Cup crown it won in England in 2022.

Among the biggest talking points is the competition for the No.1 jersey. James Tedesco has been one of the defining Kangaroos players of the past decade, while Reece Walsh brings the attacking spark that has made him one of rugby league’s biggest drawcards. Tom Trbojevic offers Walters another option at fullback, although his versatility makes him equally valuable elsewhere in the backline.

There is just as much intrigue in the halves. Sam Walker’s inclusion caps a remarkable rise for the Roosters playmaker, but he faces formidable competition from Cameron Munster, Tom Dearden and Mitchell Moses for a starting position.

Latrell Mitchell’s return adds another dimension to an already powerful backline, while six potential debutants underline the changing face of the national side.

At the centre of it all will be Isaah Yeo.

The Penrith premiership star’s decision to postpone surgery on his injured pectoral muscle gives Walters an experienced leader for a tournament in which Australia will again carry enormous expectations.

But as Walters acknowledged, this World Cup shapes as anything but a procession. The growing strength of New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga and England means Australia’s famous green and gold jersey will have to be earned on the field as well as at the selection table.

with Starts at 60 Writers