<h2>Kangaroos Side Named for Ashes Opener – Four Pointer Summary:</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>- &nbsp; Reece Walsh claims the No.1 jersey ahead of Dylan Edwards for Australia's <a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/nrl/predictions/england-vs-australia-rugby-league-ashes-game-1-tips">Rugby League Ashes</a> opener at Wembley Stadium.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Four debutants named, including cross-code star Mark Nawaqanitawase and breakout centre Gehamat Shibasaki.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Mitch Moses omitted entirely while Tom Dearden earns a bench spot in Kevin Walters' 17-man squad.</p> <p>- &nbsp; Veteran flyer Josh Ado-Carr earns a starting spot on the wing, after an impressive season with Parra.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Walsh Claims No.1 Jersey in Major Selection Call</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The biggest talking point from Kevin Walters' team announcement centres on his fullback selection, with Reece Walsh edging out Dylan Edwards for the coveted No.1 jersey.</p> <p>The Broncos star's Clive Churchill Medal-winning performance in the NRL Grand Final has clearly impressed the national coach, who opted for Walsh's attacking flair over Edwards' defensive reliability.</p> <p>Walsh becomes one of four players set to make their Kangaroos debuts in the prestigious venue, joining cross-code sensation Mark Nawaqanitawase, centre Gehamat Shibasaki, and forward Keaon Koloamatangi in earning their first green and gold caps.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Halves Combination Settled Despite Moses Omission</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Nathan Cleary and Cameron Munster will continue their established partnership in the halves, with Tom Dearden earning a spot on the interchange bench.</p> <p>The most surprising omission from the <a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/huddle/nrl/news/what-is-the-rugby-league-ashes">Rugby League Ashes</a> squad sees Mitch Moses left out entirely, despite his strong 2025 season with Parramatta.</p> <p>Dearden's inclusion provides Walters with additional playmaking options from the bench, while his utility value across multiple positions adds tactical flexibility for the series opener.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Debutants Ready for Wembley Challenge</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Gehamat Shibasaki's selection continues his remarkable breakout year, having already claimed State of Origin honours and an NRL premiership with the Broncos.</p> <p>The centre will partner Kotoni Staggs in the middle, bringing pace and finishing ability to Australia's backline.</p> <p>Mark Nawaqanitawase's inclusion creates significant interest as another dual-code representative following his successful rugby union career.</p> <p>The winger forms an exciting partnership with Josh Addo-Carr on the flanks, offering genuine speed and finishing prowess.</p> <p>The forward pack maintains a familiar look with Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Harry Grant, and Pat Carrigan forming the front row alongside Hudson Young, Angus Crichton, and captain Isaah Yeo in the back row.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>England Challenge Awaits at Iconic Venue</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>England coach Shaun Wane is yet to reveal his team selection for Sunday's 12:30am AEDT kick-off, but the hosts possess significant NRL talent including Dom Young, Herbie Farnworth, John Bateman, and Kai Pearce-Paul.</p> <p>Walters expressed his excitement about the debuts and the venue's significance: "It's going to be a huge thrill for all four of them to wear the green and gold for the first time in a Test match at such an iconic stadium.</p> <p>Every member of our squad is about to experience something incredibly special this Saturday at Wembley."</p> <p>The Rugby League Ashes 2025 series opener promises to deliver elite international rugby league action, with Australia's blend of experience and fresh talent facing England's home advantage at the historic Wembley Stadium.</p> <p>Walsh's elevation to the fullback role headlines the selection talking points, while the four debutants add intrigue to what shapes as a fascinating series opener.</p>