# Tedesco returns as Kangaroos captain for Fiji clash

> James Tedesco is recalled to captain Australia in his first Test in three years, replacing Reece Walsh for Sunday's Rugby League World Cup match in Brisbane.
- Title: Tedesco returns as Kangaroos captain for Fiji clash · Abc
- Summary: James Tedesco is recalled to captain Australia in his first Test in three years, replacing Reece Walsh for Sunday's Rugby League World Cup match in Brisbane…
- Keywords: james tedesco, australia kangaroos, rugby league world cup, fiji, kevin walters, reece walsh, lang park brisbane, news, politics, Tedesco, returns, Kangaroos
- Source: Abc — https://abc.net.au/news/2026-10-20/james-tedesco-returns-to-captain-kangaroos/107289522
- Published: 2026-10-20T06:29:35+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: james tedesco, australia kangaroos, rugby league world cup, fiji, kevin walters, reece walsh, lang park brisbane, news, politics
## Tedesco back after three years
James Tedesco has been recalled to captain Australia in his first Kangaroos Test since 2023. He will play fullback against Fiji in Brisbane on Sunday night.
## Last cap ended in shock loss
Tedesco's previous Test was the two thousand twenty-three Pacific Championship final, when he led Australia to a thirty zero loss to New Zealand.
## Tedesco replaces Walsh as captain
Tedesco replaces Reece Walsh, who played fullback in Australia's Rugby League World Cup opening win over New Zealand. Walsh scored a long-range solo try and made a try-saving tackle.
## Walters rotates squad with four debutants
Coach Kevin Walters named four debutants in the twenty-three-strong squad. Halfback Sam Walker, centre Bradman Best, hooker Blayke Brailey and back rower David Fifita will all start.
## Walker and Dearden compete for seven jersey
Sam Walker's debut doubles as a play-off with halves partner Tom Dearden. Both are vying to replace injured Mitchell Moses in the seven jersey for the rest of the campaign.
## Tedesco praises Walsh's attitude
Tedesco, thirty-three, said of Walsh: "He was great all week, asking for advice, but it's not a competition. I've got an opportunity and all I can do is make the most of it."

> He was great all week, asking for advice, but it's not a competition.
## Jillaroos name debutants for England
The Jillaroos named two debutants for their Women's Rugby League World Cup clash with England on Saturday night in Perth. Sariah Paki and Makenzie Weale will make their debuts.
## Key takeaway

James Tedesco captains Australia against Fiji on Sunday after three years away, with coach Kevin Walters rotating the squad to find his best line-up for the World Cup.