Tedesco Says Kangaroos Career May Be Ending
James Tedesco concedes he may have played his final game for the Kangaroos as Reece Walsh claims the fullback spot ahead of the World Cup semi-final.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Soccer
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James Tedesco has conceded he may have played his final game for the Kangaroos, while Reece Walsh has claimed the fullback spot for the World Cup semi-final against Samoa. Coach Kevin Walters will confirm the semi-final fullback decision on Tuesday.
Why it matters
Tedesco's uncertain future and the competition for the No.7 jersey shape Australia's squad selections heading into a World Cup semi-final. The situation also reflects wider salary cap pressures at the Sydney Roosters.
Tedesco is 33 and in the final 12 months of his Roosters contract, while Walker is 24 and his Roosters contract talks have stalled. Neither player's long-term club future has been confirmed.
The players
James Tedesco
A long-serving Australian rugby league fullback and captain who has been central to the Kangaroos and the Sydney Roosters for many seasons.
Reece Walsh
A fullback who has starred for the Kangaroos and claimed the position ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Samoa.
Kevin Walters
The Kangaroos coach responsible for selecting the squad and deciding the semi-final fullback position.
Sydney Roosters
The NRL club where Tedesco and Sam Walker are contracted and where the salary cap negotiations have stalled.
The details
Tedesco offered to help mediate between Walker and Roosters powerbrokers after chairman Nick Politis pulled out of contract talks, with coach Trent Robinson backing Politis. Tedesco said he expects to retire around 2028 and has his 300th game next year as his next milestone.
Timeline
Tuesday: Coach Kevin Walters to announce the semi-final fullback decision.
Sunday night: World Cup semi-final against Samoa at Allianz Stadium.
2028: Expected year of Tedesco's retirement.
Season Trajectory
The debate over Tedesco's succession at fullback reflects the broader generational turnover in Australian rugby league, with players such as Walsh now pressing for established Test positions. Salary cap pressures at the Roosters add a further layer to how clubs retain their leading players.
Walsh's selection at fullback would make him the first option for the semi-final, affecting fantasy and betting selections for that match. Tedesco's contract status also shapes which players fans can expect at the Roosters in the coming seasons.
The takeaway
Fans following Australian rugby league should watch Tuesday's team announcement, since it will show how Walters balances experience against the emerging talent of Walsh. Keep an eye on Roosters contract updates as they will determine the club's squad shape through 2028.
What happens next
Walters will confirm the semi-final fullback decision on Tuesday, ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Samoa on Sunday night at Allianz Stadium.
Further reading
Explore more Soccer coverage for context on how Australia's national teams are shaping their squads for major tournaments.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 7NEWS.
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