Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga has named both Nathan Cleary and Daly Cherry-Evans in his squad for the quarter-final clash against Lebanon.
The two traditional No.7s played alongside each other in somewhat of an audition during Australia’s final group stage match against Italy on Sunday morning.
Cleary has been widely expected to be named the starting halfback for the knockout stages of the tournament.
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“All 24 players have been outstanding so far in the tournament,” Meninga said in a statement. “It is extremely difficult to leave any player out.
“We have reached the knockout stages of the tournament and we need to ensure we have consistency in the squad and in the positions.
“Lebanon are a very good side and we expect a very strong and creative performance from them.”
Cherry-Evans’ selection in the quarter-final squad comes after he seemed to hint that the appearance against Italy might’ve been his last for Australia.
”The best thing about the last three weeks is that everyone’s been given the opportunity to play for Australia, which is extremely special,” he said.
“Any time I get to play rep footy, you never know when it’s your last one, so I really enjoyed tonight, I had a lot of fun. I’m really proud and whatever happens, happens.”
Meninga’s Kangaroos will take on Lebanon on Saturday morning at 6:30am AEST.
KANGAROOS QUARTER-FINAL SQUAD: 1. James Tedesco (C), 2. Daly Cherry-Evans, 4. Valentine Holmes, 5. Jake Trbojevic, 7. Cameron Munster, 8. Latrell Mitchell, 9. Josh Addo-Carr, 10. Jack Wighton, 11. Cameron Murray (VC), 13. Pat Carrigan, 14. Nathan Cleary, 15. Lindsay Collins, 16. Reuben Cotter, 17. Angus Crichton, 18. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, 19. Campbell Graham, 20. Harry Grant, 21. Liam Martin, 24. Isaah Yeo (VC)
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