Tallis Duncan emerges as potential solution to Australia's backrow crisis ahead of World Cup

With the Rugby League World Cup fast approaching

With the Rugby League World Cup fast approaching, Australia finds itself grappling with a notable lack of depth in the backrow department. The selectors have been left scrambling as injuries and form dips have thinned the ranks of their preferred loose forwards, creating an urgent need for fresh options.

Among the names being floated as a possible remedy is South Sydney's young standout, Tallis Duncan. The 22-year-old has been turning heads with his aggressive carries and relentless defensive work, earning comparisons to some of the game's elite edge runners despite his limited first-grade experience.

Duncan's rise has been rapid, but his skill set suggests he is more than just a stopgap. His ability to break tackles and maintain a high work rate over 80 minutes aligns perfectly with the demands of international football, where physicality and endurance are non-negotiable.

What sets Duncan apart is his versatility—he can

What sets Duncan apart is his versatility—he can slot in at both edge and middle forward roles, giving the coaching staff tactical flexibility. That adaptability could prove invaluable in a tournament where squad depth is tested by a grueling schedule and potential late withdrawals.

While some pundits argue that experience should take precedence in a World Cup year, Duncan's fearless approach and rapid development have made him a compelling candidate. His club form has been impossible to ignore, and the national selectors are known to reward form over reputation when the stakes are high.

If Duncan is given the nod, he would bring a youthful spark to a forward pack that has leaned heavily on veterans in recent campaigns. His inclusion could also signal a shift toward building for the next cycle, blending proven stars with emerging talent.

Ultimately, Australia's coaching staff faces a tough cal…

Ultimately, Australia's coaching staff faces a tough call, but the evidence is mounting that Duncan is ready to step up. With the clock ticking down to the tournament opener, he may well be the answer they have been searching for—a player who can steady the ship and inject new energy when it matters most.