Australia have announced their squad to travel to England for the Rugby League Ashes for the first time in over 20 years.
The Kangaroos have named seven uncapped players in their 24 man squad to face England in a three-match series, including NRL Grand Final winner Reece Walsh.
Head coach Kevin Walters has also named Blayke Brailey, Keaon Koloamatangi, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Jacob Preston, Gehamat Shibasaki, and Ethan Strange in a squad for the first time.
Australia Rugby League Chairman Mr Peter V’landys said “This will be one of the most anticipated Kangaroo Tours in recent memory."
“The return of the Ashes after 22 years is not just a sporting event, it’s a celebration of Rugby League’s rich heritage and enduring rivalry between two countries.
Speaking on his announced squad, Walters said “There is a mix of youth and experience and all of them have the desire to represent their country on this stage. I cannot wait to coach this squad."
“England will be a huge Test on their home soil, however this squad knows what it takes to perform at the highest level and knows what it takes to win.”
Full squad
- Blayke Brailey (Cronulla Sharks)*
- Patrick Carrigan (Brisbane Broncos)
- Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers)
- Xavier Coates (Melbourne Storm)
- Lindsay Collins (Sydney Roosters)
- Reuben Cotter (North Queensland Cowboys)
- Angus Crichton (Sydney Roosters)
- Tom Dearden (North Queensland Cowboys)
- Dylan Edwards (Penrith Panthers)
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (Gold Coast Titans)
- Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm) (vc)
- Keaon Koloamatangi (South Sydney Rabbitohs)*
- Zac Lomax (Parramatta Eels)
- Mitchell Moses (Parramatta Eels)
- Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm)
- Mark Nawaqanitawase (Sydney Roosters)*
- Jacob Preston (Canterbury Bulldogs)*
- Gehamat Shibasaki (Brisbane Broncos)*
- Lindsay Smith (Penrith Panthers)
- Kotoni Staggs (Brisbane Broncos)
- Ethan Strange (Canberra Raiders)*
- Reece Walsh (Brisbane Broncos)*
- Isaah Yeo (Penrith Panthers) (c)
- Hudson Young (Canberra Raiders)
*denotes first Kangaroos selection
Captain
Penrith Panthers' lock Isaah Yeo will skipper the Kangaroos side in England, with Melbourne Storm hooker Harry Grant picked as vice-captain.
