Kangaroos Coach Makes Bold Call Ahead of Tonga Rematch
Mal Meninga has made a surprise selection for the Kangaroos bench, opting for Matt Burton over Ben Hunt, as Australia prepares to face Tonga in their Pacific Championships opener at Suncorp Stadium on Friday.
A New Era for the Kangaroos
Six debutants, including halves Tom Dearden and Mitch Moses, will take the field for Australia, marking a fresh start after their disappointing 30-0 loss to New Zealand in November. Meninga is banking on his new-look team to bring a different dynamic to the table.
Burton’s Utility Value
Canterbury playmaker Burton will wear the No.14 jersey, providing backline cover off the bench. Meninga’s decision to leave out St George Illawarra star Hunt may raise eyebrows, but the coach is convinced Burton’s versatility will be crucial in the high-stakes match.
Trbojevic’s Return
Centre Tom Trbojevic, initially slated for off-season surgery on a shoulder injury, will take the field, albeit with some caution. Meninga is taking a precautionary approach, ensuring that if anyone goes down, the team has the necessary cover.
Halves Pairing Shakes Things Up
Meninga has thrown his support behind young gun Dearden and NSW Origin hero Moses, who hasn’t played since rupturing his biceps in July. The new pairing is a bold move, especially with Nathan Cleary and Cameron Munster requiring off-season surgeries and Daly Cherry-Evans omitted from the side.
Dearden’s Rise to Prominence
The coach praised Dearden’s growth since his move to North Queensland, where he was elevated to co-captaincy this year. “He’s found a home… feels like he’s part of the furniture and played accordingly,” Meninga said.
Ponga’s Omission Explained
Meninga denied putting a line through Kalyn Ponga’s name after the Newcastle fullback was omitted from the squad. “We chose the team on merit,” he stressed. “We feel that Dylan Edwards is the best No.1 in the game at the moment.”
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