Cleary and Munster ruled out through injury. With Cherry-Evans being dropped I'm not sure what other options we have. Hynes playing with zero confidence, Reynolds held together by scotch tape. Keary on his way to Super League so unlikely he gets picked as he wouldn't be eligible while over there. Even outside chance Sam Walker is injured. I think that combination is our best healthy and available option, with Burton as cover. Can only play with the hand you're dealt.
The cause for concern is that Cleary and Munster should be wanting to play these games for Australia even if banged up and nursing minor injuries. From a marketability aspect the people have been promised the best of Australian rugby league playing in this tournament but there isn't a lot of star power or the games best taking part in the team. Munster and Cleary are both superstars but want to rest after the NRL season, Latrell isn't here, Ponga didn't want to play, Walsh isn't in the side, mix in the top tier players from island nations wanting to play for their respective countries and the Australian side seems a bit lacklustre.
You're right in what you say though, I probably would've gone Dearden/Cherry-Evans simply because I don't see Moses being a long term option for the Australian national team and DCE has longevity, experience and deserves a send off but it is a sad state of affairs that Dearden/Moses is our best halves combo, especially since Moses spent most of 2024 on the sidelines.
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