Why Tallis Duncan could be the answer for Australia's World Cup shortage

Tallis Duncan, a young player for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, is rapidly becoming a compelling option for Australia's second-row shortage ahead of the upcoming World Cup. While his usual position is in the backline, his consistent form is making him difficult to overlook for national selection.

Several key players who might have filled the second-row spots are unavailable. Liam Martin is one of the few certainties for coach Kevin Walters' squad. Hudson Young and Dylan Lucas are sidelined with injuries. Haumole Olakau'atu will represent Tonga, Briton Nikora is committed to New Zealand, and Angus Crichton's international future is uncertain due to his potential move to rugby union.

Duncan, 24, has shown significant improvement over the past year, becoming a reliable presence for South Sydney amidst a turbulent season. He has excelled in the second-row and, more recently, at centre. His performance against Canterbury, where he scored a try, assisted another, and gained 182 meters from 23 carries, exemplifies his current form. With the Rabbitohs hitting a strong patch of performance, a solid finish to the season could propel Duncan into contention for a green and gold jersey.

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It's definitely something I've dreamed about my whole life. I haven't spoken about it too much publicly, that's not really the type I am. But that's a dream and if I was able to achieve that dream it would mean everything to me and my family. That's all I have to say about it now.

"It's definitely something I've dreamed about my whole life. I haven't spoken about it too much publicly, that's not really the type I am," Duncan said about the possibility of representing Australia. "But that's a dream and if I was able to achieve that dream it would mean everything to me and my family. That's all I have to say about it now."

Duncan's versatility, having played centre for the past month due to injuries, could further enhance his value to the Australian squad. He credits the experience of teammates like Jack Wighton and Latrell Mitchell for his development, particularly in adapting to the centre position. "I'm a second-rower, but being able to help the team in any way, I'll always put my hand up for that," Duncan stated. "I want to be part of an environment that's team first and for me to want that I have to live that. I believe we're doing that now."

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I'm a second-rower, but being able to help the team in any way, I'll always put my hand up for that. I want to be part of an environment that's team first and for me to want that I have to live that. I believe we're doing that now.