Australian rugby league star James Tedesco has been named captain of the Kangaroos for their upcoming Rugby League World Cup match against Fiji, marking his return to the national side after a three-year absence from Test football.

The 33-year-old Sydney Roosters fullback will lead Australia at Brisbane’s Lang Park on Sunday night. His selection comes after an impressive season at club level, including a premiership-winning campaign with the Roosters.

Tedesco last represented Australia in the 2023 Pacific Championship final, when the Kangaroos suffered a 30–0 defeat against New Zealand. Since then, he has continued to establish himself as one of the leading players in the National Rugby League.

His recent achievements include winning the Dally M Medal in 2025 and receiving the Clive Churchill Medal after being named best on ground in the NRL grand final earlier this month. He has also regained his place in the New South Wales State of Origin team.

Australia's coach, Kevin Walters, has made several changes to the lineup following the Kangaroos' narrow 24–22 victory over New Zealand in their opening World Cup match. Tedesco replaces Reece Walsh at fullback for the Fiji game, although Walsh remains in the squad and is expected to provide an option from the interchange bench.

The selection gives Walters an opportunity to assess different combinations as Australia progresses through the tournament. The team has considerable depth in the fullback position, with both Tedesco and Walsh capable of creating attacking opportunities and producing important defensive plays.

Four players are also set to start in their first World Cup appearance for the Kangaroos: centre Bradman Best, halfback Sam Walker, hooker Blayke Brailey and forward David Fifita. Walker, Best and Brailey are also preparing for their first senior Test appearances for Australia.

Walker’s selection is particularly notable after a strong season with the Sydney Roosters. He will partner Tom Dearden in the halves, giving Australia a new combination as the coaching staff continues to assess its options following an injury to Mitchell Moses.

Fifita brings international experience from his previous appearances for Tonga, while Best and Brailey have earned selection after strong performances in domestic and representative competitions. Their inclusion reflects Australia's effort to balance experienced campaigners with players who can contribute fresh energy.

The Kangaroos will be seeking to build on their opening win against New Zealand, which was decided by only two points. The match demonstrated the level of competition expected throughout the World Cup and the importance of maintaining consistency across the tournament.

Fiji will present another challenge. The team impressed in its opening match against the Cook Islands, scoring 40 points and demonstrating its attacking ability. Led by captain Api Koroisau, Fiji has a squad containing experienced NRL players who will be looking to test Australia's defence.

For Tedesco, the match offers an opportunity to re-establish himself in the national team while taking on the responsibility of captaincy. His experience in major finals and representative football could prove valuable as Australia looks to progress through the competition.

The fixture is scheduled for Sunday evening at Lang Park in Brisbane. Australia's performance will be closely watched as supporters assess the team's changing lineup, the emergence of new Test players and the contest between its fullback options.

With the tournament continuing, Walters' selections suggest that Australia is still refining its strongest combination. The Fiji match will provide another important test of the Kangaroos' depth and championship ambitions.