“I don’t think Mal is set on a team”: Matty Johns on challenging Kangaroos selections

The Kangaroos side is set to be announced on Monday, but with injuries and availabilities still up in the air, the lineup is far from concrete.

Matty Johns believes that head coach Mal Meninga is still unsure of what his best side looks like and has failed to make any clear decisions.

“I think Mal Meninga is torn on what he is going to do,” Johns said on SEN 1170.

“A lot of it is going to depend on Edwards.”

Dylan Edwards is a key contender for the Australian fullback spot, however, missed four games during the season after suffering a high-grade PCL injury.

However, he has returned for the finals series, leaving many questions surrounding his post season recovery.

If Edwards is not named, a likely alternative circling is Ponga, however recent comments from the fullback leave his playing interest unclear.

“Whether Ponga is in that team or not, that will depend on Dylan Edwards availability.”

Johns also questions if they did lock down Edwards if he would start as a 14, or if Meninga may throw in players like Ben Hunt or Connor Watson.

The hooker spot is also raising questions as the assumed favourite Harry Grant battles an ongoing injury.

“I don’t think Mal is set on a team, I think he is waiting to see what comes out of the grand final,” Johns added.

The Kangaroos side will be named on Monday, to face off in the Pacific Championship which will kick off on October 18th.