Walsh v Ponga: How the most titanic of fullback battles vindicated Walters’ faith

October 16, 2026 — 4:00pm

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It was a bold gamble by Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters to keep faith in Broncos fullback Reece Walsh at the expense of newly crowned Clive Churchill medallist James Tedesco, despite the Queenslander not gracing the field for two months.

But in a titanic battle with New Zealand counterpart and Queensland Maroons teammate Kalyn Ponga, Walsh repaid that trust, and ensured his battle to become Australia’s premier No.1 would be enthralling.

“They’re both outstanding players, aren’t they? “Kangaroos captain Isaah Yeo said.

“Kalyn’s shown over the last six or seven weeks how outstanding he has been for Newcastle, he pretty much carried them all the way.”

“[But] for Reece to come back, that’s a massive effort. To not play for eight weeks and in a contest like that, then come up with some of those plays, that’s really hard to do at this level.”

Walsh sought game-changing plays in his country’s 24-22 triumph to launch the Rugby League World Cup – and there were faults, including a drop-out that soared out on the full and was penalised. But he ultimately proved the difference when he produced moments few other players, if any, could replicate.

Tedesco, unsighted in the green and gold jumper since 2023, was coming off setting........

© Brisbane Times