We are just six NRL rounds away from the finals series kicking off.

Looking past that though, there's a salivating Test series kicking off in late October.

The first Kangaroos tour of England in 22 years. The rugby league Ashes are on the line!

Kevin Walters has been named the Kangaroos coach and will now oversee the three test match Ashes series against England.

With news that a 22-man squad is set to be named, we're almost assured to see some fresh faces head overseas.

With Roos regulars Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Payne Haas and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow all considering playing for Samoa at the end of the season, there are potential spots up from grabs.

Factor in injuries, post season commitments and the need to refresh the squad, I'd argue we're due a few "bolters".

Now this term is very much up for debate. For instance, I see Lindsay Smith as a bolter, given the fact he was overlooked for Origin.

The fact he represented the Kangaroos recently though means he won't be seen as a bolter by many others. I've not added him here for that one short stint off the bench.

I'm going to assume that Isaiya Katoa plays for Tonga and Terrell May represents Samoa so they're not named below.

Here are the players I consider genuine bolters who may be named in that 22 man Ashes squad:

5. Jacob Preston

I'm still not 100% sure how Preston didn't debut for the Blues this year. I'd be shocked if he didn't in 2026.

He should debut with a Kangaroos jersey to his name already. To be frank, to not name him (injury aside) would be criminal.

Preston is one of the game's premier backrowers despite being just 23 years of age and having just 52 NRL caps on his resume.

Liam Martin and Angus Crichton will probably start for the Kangaroos with Pat Carrigan starting at lock.

Hudson Young is the other I'd name as a potential starter, although he, or Martin, could shift into the middle.

Jeremiah Nanai may opt for Samoa while I don't see themtaking Kurt Capewell. Reuben Cotter is better in the middle. Cam Murray won't make it in time.

Preston must be on that plane.