Sydney Roosters playmaker Sam Walker is edging closer to a maiden Kangaroos jersey, with Australia coach Kevin Walters signalling that a big September for the Tricolours could be the final piece of the puzzle.
As the World Cup looms at season's end, Walters finds himself spoiled for choice in the halves.
Nathan Cleary and Cameron Munster remain the clear frontrunners after the Ashes series victory over England, while Tom Dearden and Ethan Strange banked valuable international experience during last year's campaign.
Mitchell Moses, who was also part of the Ashes team in England, confirmed he will play for Lebanon at this year's World Cup, as he appeared at the team launch with Michael Cheika who will coach the side in October.
Walker is forcing his way into the conversation after a breakout State of Origin series for Queensland, and the young gun looks set to lead the Roosters deep in the finals, and Walter is not hiding his admiration.
Adding intrigue to the saga, England coach Brian McDermott has confirmed the door remains open for Walker, who was born on England soil when his father Ben played for Leeds.
It was reported in May this year by Pete Badel that Walker was expected to choose Australia over England, and his father Ben had told Code Sports that he doesn't expect his son to choose England given no family history despite being there.
"The door isn't shut," McDermott revealed to The Sydney Morning Herald.
McDermott and Walters fronted the media together at North Sydney Leagues Club for the unveiling of Perth Bears' new jersey, a fitting backdrop given Walters' history with the Walker family, having played alongside Sam's father Ben and his uncles his Broncos days.
Speaking candidly to SMH, Walters explained what he's looking for when it comes to picking the Kangaroos squad.
"There are three criteria, which is previous form [for Australia], Origin this year, and finals series," Walters revealed.
"I like Sam, he's put himself in a great position [to be selected] with his form in State of Origin, and the Roosters will be playing finals."
Walters drew a direct parallel to how fullback Reece Walsh forced his way into the squad last year.
"Reece Walsh got in the side last year because of his performances through the finals' series. He was in and around the squad, but that sealed [his selection]," Walters explained.
"A strong finals series doesn't guarantee you anything, but it puts you right up there in the selector's minds, and that's the case with Sam.
"He can play No.6 or No.7, he's creative, and I just like what he does. He's a very good player who I look forward to watching."
Despite the growing buzz around a Kangaroos debut, McDermott, an assistant coach with the Gold Coast Titans this season, says he is respecting Walker's space rather than lobbying for his allegiance.
"I haven't shut the door on Sam. I bumped into him when the Titans had an opposed session against the Queensland Origin team," he explained.
"We shook hands and spoke about the game. He knows where I'm at. It's not for me to pester him.
"I doubt I'll get a phone call, and I'll imagine he'll pursue green and gold, but the door isn't shut."
Even with the Brisbane Broncos set to sit out the finals, Walters confirmed Reece Walsh remains his preferred starting fullback, a call that hasn't yet been guaranteed.
Walters will sit with Darren Lockyer, Cameron Smith, Boyd Cordner, Andrew Johns and the ARL Commission executive chairman Peter V'landys to sit down and finalise the squad.
Walsh will be considered along the likes of Penrith Panthers own Dylan Edwards and Sam Walker's teammate James Tedesco.
"I have a healthy respect for Reece and what he brings; I know him better than anyone in the game as far as what he brings to a team," Walters said.
The 2026 Rugby League World Cup kicks off on Thursday October 15, 11 days after the NRL Grand Final.
Australia will play New Zealand at Allianz Stadium to kick off the tournament.
