Reece Walsh, Gehamat Shibasaki & Mark Nawaqanitawase to Start for Australia in Rugby League Ashes Opener

Walsh, Shibasaki and Nawaqanitawase ready to shine as Australia face England at Wembley

There are few moments in rugby league as spine-tingling as running out for your country in an Ashes Test at Wembley. For Reece Walsh, Gehamat Shibasaki, and Mark Nawaqanitawase, that dream becomes a reality this Saturday as they prepare to make their debuts in Australia’s starting line-up against England in the opening Rugby League Ashes clash.

Head coach Kevin Walters confirmed the trio’s selection, marking a new chapter in the Kangaroos’ storied rivalry with England — one stretching back to 1908. It’s not just another Test series; it’s an opportunity for a new generation of Australians to stamp their authority on the international stage.

Walsh rewarded after Grand Final brilliance

At just 23, Reece Walsh already carries the aura of a star. His selection ahead of Dylan Edwards at full-back comes as little surprise following a stunning performance in Brisbane Broncos’ NRL Grand Final victory over Melbourne Storm earlier this month. That night, Walsh was electric — his pace, footwork and vision tore the Storm apart as he picked up the Man of the Match award.

Now, he’ll bring that same attacking spark to the international arena, wearing the green and gold for the first time. His inclusion is not only a reward for club form but also a signal of intent from Walters — this Australian team plans to play fast, brave, and confident rugby league.

“Reece has been outstanding all year,” Walters said earlier this week. “He’s a fearless player who brings energy to everything he does. To see him step out at Wembley will be special, not just for him, but for everyone who’s followed his journey.”

Shibasaki’s remarkable redemption story

While Walsh’s rise has been meteoric, Gehamat Shibasaki’s journey is something altogether different — a tale of persistence, patience, and redemption.

The 27-year-old centre was once written off, bouncing between clubs and struggling for form. Between 2021 and 2023, he managed just three NRL appearances in total. When the Broncos offered him a trial contract earlier this year, few expected him to make it through pre-season, let alone become a key player in their Grand Final run.

But Shibasaki defied expectations, scoring two crucial tries in the decider against Melbourne and cementing his place among the league’s most improved players. His call-up for the Ashes Test completes a stunning turnaround few could have predicted 12 months ago.

“It’s been a crazy year,” Shibasaki admitted after learning of his selection. “I’ve gone from fighting to stay in the game to representing my country at Wembley. It’s surreal. I just want to go out there, do my job and enjoy every minute.”

Nawaqanitawase switches codes and makes history

On the wing, another debutant is set to make headlines — Mark Nawaqanitawase, the Sydney Roosters powerhouse who switched codes from rugby union less than a year ago.

Having represented the Wallabies at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Nawaqanitawase’s transition to league has been seamless. His athleticism, aerial prowess, and try-scoring instincts made him the NRL’s top try-scorer this season, and his explosive form has earned him a deserved call-up.

At 25, Nawaqanitawase’s inclusion represents both a bold experiment and a calculated risk. Switching codes is never straightforward, but the Roosters winger has handled every challenge with maturity and flair.

“Mark’s story is a brilliant example of adaptability,” Walters said. “He’s a natural footballer — strong, fast, and incredibly competitive. He’s got that spark we love to see in a Kangaroo.”

A new look for the Kangaroos

Saturday’s clash at Wembley won’t just be a nostalgia trip for the Ashes — it will be a glimpse of the Kangaroos’ future. Alongside the three debutants, forward Keaon Koloamatangi will make his first appearance off the bench.

The 26-year-old has switched allegiance from Tonga, having represented them in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup and the 2023 series against England. His decision to don the green and gold adds depth and versatility to Australia’s forward pack, with Walters confirming his inclusion as part of a strong interchange bench.

The full Australian line-up reads:
Reece Walsh, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Kotoni Staggs, Gehamat Shibasaki, Josh Addo-Carr, Cameron Munster, Nathan Cleary, Patrick Carrigan, Harry Grant, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, Angus Crichton, Hudson Young, Isaah Yeo (captain).
Interchanges: Tom Dearden, Lindsay Collins, Reuben Cotter, Keaon Koloamatangi.
Reserves: Bradman Best, Lindsay Smith, Mitchell Moses.

Walters on debutants and the Ashes stage

Head coach Kevin Walters, himself a veteran of Australia’s golden eras, understands the gravity of the occasion. The Ashes may have lost some of its annual rhythm over the decades, but its spirit remains fierce, and Wembley’s stage is the perfect backdrop for renewal.

“It’s going to be a huge thrill for all four debutants,” Walters said. “To wear the green and gold for the first time — and to do it in a Test match at such an iconic stadium — is something they’ll never forget.

“I’m excited for them, but also for the entire squad. Whether you’re starting, on the bench, or in the reserves, this series is about a collective effort. Everyone here understands what it means to represent Australia.”

A fresh Ashes chapter begins

For rugby league fans, this Test isn’t just about nostalgia or history — it’s about what comes next. The inclusion of dynamic, fearless players like Walsh, Shibasaki, and Nawaqanitawase signals a new phase for the Kangaroos — one rooted in attacking intent, speed, and unpredictability.

Facing an England side brimming with confidence, especially after their impressive series win over Tonga last year, Australia know they’ll need to be sharp from the outset. Wembley has witnessed some of the greatest moments in Ashes history — from Wally Lewis’s leadership to Darren Lockyer’s magic — and Saturday could well mark the arrival of another generation destined for greatness.

For Walsh, it’s the next step in what already feels like a superstar career. For Shibasaki, it’s a redemption story that will inspire countless others. And for Nawaqanitawase, it’s proof that talent transcends codes.

As the green and gold step onto the Wembley turf once more, there’s a sense that this is more than just a Test match — it’s the start of something new. The names may be different, but the passion, pride, and purpose remain timeless.