
<h2>Seven Debutants Named in Kangaroos’ Ashes Tour Squad - Three Point Summary: </h2>
<p> </p>
<p>- Mark Nawaqanitawase's cross-code switch reaches new heights with Kangaroos selection for England Ashes tour</p>
<p>- Seven debutants named in the Australian squad, including Gehamat Shibasaki and Reece Walsh</p>
<p>- Matt Burton misses out as Kevin Walters finalises 24-man touring party for upcoming series</p>
<p>Mark Nawaqanitawase has been officially named in Australia's Kangaroos squad for the highly anticipated Ashes tour against England in November.</p>
<p>The cross-code convert's selection represents a remarkable achievement in his rugby league journey, with coach Kevin Walters confirming the 24-man touring party that features seven debutants. Nawaqanitawase's inclusion alongside Mitchell Moses, who retained his spot despite speculation he might miss out, highlights the depth of talent available for the England tour.</p>
<p> </p>
<h2>Shibasaki's Redemption Story Continues</h2>
<p> </p>
<p>Brisbane Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki has earned his maiden Kangaroos call-up following an extraordinary season that saw him rise from a train-and-trial contract to grand final hero. The 22-year-old's selection caps off an incredible turnaround after being axed from the Broncos squad just weeks before their premiership-winning campaign due to discipline issues.</p>
<p>"He's had one crack at the NRL and lost his way a bit, but he's got a second chance and made the most of it," Walters explained. "We saw him play outstanding football in the State of Origin series, and then this run at the Broncos in the last six weeks, he's been one of their go-to players."</p>
<p>Shibasaki's two-try performance in Sunday's grand final victory further validated his selection, with Walters noting the centre had "virtually forced his way in" through consistent performances when it mattered most.</p>
<p> </p>
<h2>Debutants Set for England Challenge</h2>
<p> </p>
<p>The Kangaroos squad features an exciting blend of experience and fresh talent, with seven players earning their first Australian jerseys for the Ashes tour. Alongside Nawaqanitawase and Shibasaki, the debutant contingent includes Blayke Brailey, Keaon Koloamatangi, Jacob Preston, Ethan Strange, and Reece Walsh.</p>
<p>Walsh's inclusion creates an intriguing selection dilemma at fullback, with Dylan Edwards also named in the squad. Walters remained tight-lipped about his preferred option for the number one jersey, indicating the competition remains wide open heading into the tour.</p>
<p>Matt Burton emerges as the most notable omission from the touring party, with Walters expressing genuine sympathy for the Canterbury halfback. "He's the player I feel most sympathy for," the coach acknowledged, highlighting the difficult decisions required when finalising the squad.</p>
<p> </p>
<h2>Complete Kangaroos Squad</h2>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The full 24-man squad includes:</strong> Blayke Brailey, Patrick Carrigan, Nathan Cleary, Xavier Coates, Lindsay Collins, Reuben Cotter, Angus Crichton, Tom Dearden, Dylan Edwards, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Harry Grant (vice-captain), Keaon Koloamatangi, Zac Lomax, Mitchell Moses, Cameron Munster, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Jacob Preston, Gehamat Shibasaki, Lindsay Smith, Kotoni Staggs, Ethan Strange, Reece Walsh, Isaah Yeo (captain), and Hudson Young.</p>
<p>The Ashes tour represents a significant opportunity for Australia to reclaim bragging rights against England, with the squad selection reflecting Walters' commitment to rewarding form players whilst maintaining the experience necessary for international success.</p>
<p> </p>
<h2>Kangaroos Ashes Tour Fixture List:</h2>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>First Test: </strong>England vs Australia - Saturday, October 25, Wembley Stadium, London.</p>
<p><strong>Second Test: </strong>England vs Australia - Saturday, November 1, Everton Stadium, Liverpool.</p>
<p><strong>Third Test:</strong> England vs Australia - Saturday, November 8, Headingley Stadium, Leeds.</p>
<p><em>All matches will kick off at 2:30pm local time (1:30am Sunday AEDT)</em></p>
Relevant Articles
10 NRL Stars Set to Join R360
The NRL has today been rocked by news that breakaway rugby union competition R360 will launch in October 2026 and already have plans in place to poach up to 10 of their biggest stars.
James Tedesco Withdraws from Kangaroos Ashes Tour
The Kangaroos have suffered a major blow with star fullback James Tedesco ruled out of the upcoming Ashes Tour due to family commitments.
Mark Nawaqanitawase Set to Return to Rugby Union
In a huge blow for the NRL, Sydney Roosters try-scoring revelation Mark Nawaqanitawas appears set to return to Rugby Union ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
1
JOINOnly takes3 minutes
2
DEPOSITIt's safe andsecure
3
BETGreat oddsand specials


