“I'm shocked": Kemp expresses surprise over Robson non-selection

With Australia gearing up for its title defence of the Rugby League World Cup, Denan Kemp and Chad Townsend believe that Reece Robson is stiff not to be a part of the 23-man squad.

Having joined the Roosters from North Queensland this season, the hooker has been a strong addition to their spine in attack, managing 2,355 receipts in 2026 as Sydney lifted the Provan-Summons Trophy.

His form throughout the season saw him selected for the Blues in this year’s State of Origin side in all three games.

But when it came to selection for next week’s World Cup, Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters decided to go with Melbourne’s Harry Grant and Cronulla’s Blayke Brailey as his hookers for the tournament.

Reflecting on the 23-man squad, the former Warriors and Broncos winger expressed his surprise at Robson’s non-selection.

“I was surprised Reece Robson's not in here,” Kemp explained on SEN’s Saturday League Kick-Off.

“I'm shocked. The only thing I can think is Kevin Walters has said Reece Robson is a big minute (No.) 9.

“I've already got Harry Grant and Blayke Brailey can be a crafty No. 9, but I just think that Reece Robson can be used as an impact No. 9.

“He's a big body, he can run the ball, he's the premiership-winning No. 9 and his line speed in defence.

“Even if you were to say he's not as crafty as Brailey in attack, maybe that's true, but I actually think Robson's craftiness in attack doesn't get enough credit.

“What I can say (is) bring him on for impact for defence; I feel like he's been a little bit hard done by, to be honest.”

Chad Townsend agreed, noting the 28-year-old had been solid during the final series for the Tricolours.

“When I saw the squads, I initially was like, wow, he didn't go with Reece Robson,” he said.

“I thought in the prelim, he was absolutely outstanding. (He) had two try assists against the Dolphins when he had those really nice short passes to (Victor) Radley and (Lindsay) Collins, ultra fit, ultra competitive, brings great line speed.

“Obviously he was a part of that New South Wales squad which won the State of Origin.

“He started all three games there, premiership-winning hooker as well. I thought he was really hard done by.”

Australia’s campaign begins on October 15 when the Kangaroos face New Zealand in the opening match of the tournament at Allianz Stadium in Sydney.

SEN League will have live commentary of the match as part of its live coverage of the tournament.