Australia’s Head Coach Kevin Walters has announced that Harry Grant will take over captaincy for the Kangaroos in this Saturday’s second Test at Liverpool’s Hill Dickinson Stadium. This marks Grant’s debut as captain following the absence of Isaah Yeo, who is currently undergoing return-to-play concussion protocols.
Walters expressed confidence in both Grant and Yeo, praising their leadership during the early part of the tour. “Harry and all of the senior players for that matter stepped up after Isaah’s unfortunate injury last week,” Walters stated. “While we would love to have Isaah out there, he’ll still contribute in many other ways around the group this week. He’s a natural leader, and so too is Harry, so we’re in great hands this week.”
In addition to Yeo’s absence, the Kangaroos will welcome Lindsay Smith, a teammate of Yeo’s at Penrith, into the lineup. This will be Smith’s second Test match following a strong debut in the last year’s Pacific Championships final.
The Kangaroos currently lead the Ashes series 1-0, following a commanding 26-6 win over England, which set a new attendance record for a UK Rugby League Ashes match with 60,812 fans in attendance.
Several players made their debuts in the opening Test, including Mark Nawaqanitawase, Gehamat Shibasaki, Reece Walsh, and Keaon Koloamatangi, showcasing the depth of talent within the team.
As the team focuses on preparation for the upcoming challenge, fans can look forward to a thrilling matchup against England as the Kangaroos aim to solidify their series lead. The blend of experienced leaders and emerging talent bodes well for Australia’s prospects in this much-anticipated clash.
The squad for the upcoming match is as follows:
1. Reece Walsh
2. Mark Nawaqanitawase
3. Kotoni Staggs
4. Gehamat Shibasaki
5. Josh Addo-Carr
6. Cameron Munster
7. Nathan Cleary
8. Lindsay Collins
9. Harry Grant ©
10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
11. Angus Crichton
12. Hudson Young
13. Patrick Carrigan
14. Tom Dearden
15. Lindsay Smith
16. Reuben Cotter
17. Keaon Koloamatangi
18. Bradman Best
19. Jacob Preston
20. Mitchell Moses
With a strong start to the series and key players stepping up, the Kangaroos are poised to deliver an exciting performance this weekend.