Mal Meninga has officially unveiled his 21-man Australia squad ahead of the Pacific Championships.
The Kangaroos will be seeking redemption in the tournament, which kicks off on Friday, October 18 against Tonga, after they slipped to a horror loss against New Zealand in last year's inaugural final.
James Tedesco, who captained the side last year, has been left out while there is also no place for the likes of Daly Cherry-Evans and Kayln Ponga.
MORE: Pacific Championships 2024 - Schedule, matches, and pools for international tournament
Australia Kangaroos squad revealed by Mal Meninga
Ponga dominated the headlines ahead of the announcement after initially turning down selection while citing his desire to focus on a full pre-season with Newcastle.
But after backflipping on this decision and making himself available, the Aussie selectors have decided to not pick the Knights star.
Instead, Dylan Edwards has been named to play at fullback after Mal Meninga highlighted how his State of Origin campaign had led to him being chosen over Tedesco.
Elsewhere, Mitch Moses looks set to debut for his national side at halfback with Nathan Cleary ruled out of the tournament through injury and DCE overlooked.
Isaah Yeo will skipper the side with grand final rival Harry Grant serving as his vice-captain.
In a late blow, Liam Martin has dropped out of the side due to injury with Hudson Young replacing him.
Australia Kangaroos Test squad for Pacific Championships 2024
- Broncos: Pat Carrigan
- Bulldogs: Matt Burton
- Cowboys: Reuben Cotter, Tom Dearden, Reece Robson
- Dolphins: Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow
- Dragons: Ben Hunt, Zac Lomax
- Eels: Mitch Moses
- Knights: Bradman Best
- Panthers: Dylan Edwards, Lindsay Smith, Isaah Yeo (capt.)
- Rabbitohs: Cam Murray
- Raiders: Hudson Young
- Roosters: Lindsay Collins, Angus Crichton
- Sea Eagles: Tom Trbojevic
- Storm: Harry Grant, Xavier Coates
- Warriors: Mitch Barnett
