"Winger Nawaqanitawase, who previously played for the Wallabies, had a breakout season for the Sydney Roosters where his 24 tries in 23 games resulted in him being the NRL's leading try-scorer for the year. The individual brilliance of Nawaqanitawase Australia's first rugby-to-league dual international since Scott Gourley in 1991 combined with the skills of Clive Churchill Medal winner Walsh at fullback, will pose a massive threat to England."
"Australia's back five has a Broncos look to it, with journeyman Shibasaki joining his Brisbane centre partner Kotoni Staggs. Shibasaki started the year on a train-and-trial deal before becoming one of the Broncos' best performers and earning a Queensland debut in the State of Origin decider, where he outplayed NSW opposite number Stephen Crichton in a famous victory. His Test debut will cap an extraordinary year."
"Koloamatangi was the Rabbitohs' best forward in a disappointing season for the club. He previously represented Tonga on the international stage but made himself available for Kangaroos selection. He will come off the bench and complement a powerful pack that includes Pat Carrigan, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and captain Isaah Yeo. There were no surprises in the halves with Melbourne magician Cameron Munster and Penrith maestro Nathan Cleary the obvious choices."
Australia will field four Test debutants — Mark Nawaqanitawase, Reece Walsh, Gehamat Shibasaki and Keaon Koloamatangi — in the opening Ashes Test at Wembley. Nawaqanitawase is a rugby-to-league dual international who led the NRL with 24 tries in 23 games for the Sydney Roosters. Walsh, a Clive Churchill Medal winner, takes the fullback spot after a match-winning grand final and strong season for Brisbane. Shibasaki earned a Queensland Origin debut after progressing from a train-and-trial deal to become a key Broncos performer. Koloamatangi, former Tonga representative, will provide bench impact within a forward pack anchored by Isaah Yeo, Pat Carrigan and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui. Cameron Munster and Nathan Cleary start in the halves.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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