Walters Coy on Walker vs Moses Duel for Kangaroos' World Cup Opener

Australia coach Kevin Walters refused to reveal whether Sam Walker or Mitchell Moses will start at halfback alongside Cameron Munster when the Kangaroos open their World Cup against New Zealand on October 15.

Kevin Walters is keeping his cards close to his chest. The Kangaroos coach admitted on Thursday that he remains undecided on who will wear the No. 7 jersey when Australia open their Rugby League World Cup defence against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium on October 15.

Walters named three halfbacks in his squad — Tom Dearden, Sam Walker and Mitchell Moses — but the real contest is between the latter two. Walker forced his way in after an ankle injury had seen him written off six to eight weeks ago, returning in premiership-winning form, while Moses brings a stronger long-range kicking game to complement the off-the-cuff brilliance of Cameron Munster. Dearden, Walters suggested, is more of a depth option.

"Being honest, no, I don't," Walters told SEN's Kick Off when asked if he was closer to a decision. "Those two are in a duel for sure as to who will wear the No. 7."

With the opener against the Kiwis just six days away, one of the NRL's brightest young playmakers is about to lose the biggest selection battle of his career — and the winner gets the keys to a World Cup campaign.