Kevin Walters Confirms Kangaroos Changes for Fiji Clash; Predicted Lineup

Australian coach Kevin Walters has confirmed several changes to the Kangaroos side for their next Rugby League World Cup match after Australia edged New Zealand 24–22 in a thrilling tournament opener.

Jack Bostock stole the headlines with a stunning hat-trick on debut, including the match-winning try, but Walters is already looking ahead to the next challenge as Australia continues its World Cup campaign.

The Kangaroos are set to make at least three changes for their clash against Fiji, with Walters rotating key players following the opening-round battle against the Kiwis.

James Tedesco is expected to return at fullback after being rested for Australia's opening match, with Reece Walsh set to make way despite his solid performance against New Zealand.

Walsh scored a spectacular long-range try and produced a crucial defensive effort during the 24–22 victory. However, Walters had previously indicated that he wanted to give players who had endured a lengthy NRL finals campaign an opportunity to recover.

Tedesco, who captained the Sydney Roosters to the NRL premiership, was rested alongside fellow grand-final winner Sam Walker. Both are now expected to feature against Fiji.

Bradman Best is also set to come into the side after being rested for the New Zealand clash, giving Walters another option in the outside backs.

One of the biggest talking points ahead of the Fiji match is Australia's new-look halves pairing.

Walters has confirmed that Sam Walker will play halfback, with Tom Dearden moving into the No.6 jersey at five-eighth.

Dearden came off the bench against New Zealand after Mitchell Moses was forced from the field early in the second half with a leg injury. The North Queensland Cowboys playmaker will now have the opportunity to start alongside Walker as Australia looks to build combinations throughout the tournament.

The pairing will be an exciting one to watch, with both players bringing different strengths to the Australian attack.

However, Moses' injury remains a major concern. Walters said the halfback would undergo scans, with the results set to determine the extent of the problem and whether he could remain available for the rest of the World Cup.

If Moses is ruled out of the tournament, shadow player Ethan Strange could be brought into the squad.

Moses' injury could have a significant impact on Australia's World Cup campaign.

The Parramatta Eels captain was selected to partner Cameron Munster in the halves for the opening match, but was unable to return after half-time against New Zealand.

With Walker and Dearden expected to start against Fiji, the immediate halves combination appears settled. The bigger question is whether Moses can recover in time to play a role later in the tournament.

Walters will be hoping the injury is not serious, as Australia prepares for a demanding run of matches in its bid to defend the World Cup title.

Australia's next match is against Fiji in the men's Rugby League World Cup pool stage.

Match: Australia vs Fiji

Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026

Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

The match will be another important test for the defending champions as Walters continues to manage his squad and build towards the knockout stages.

With Tedesco and Best expected to return, Walker and Dearden forming a new halves combination, and Moses' injury still to be assessed, the Kangaroos could look noticeably different when they take the field against Fiji.