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Kangaroos ready to take on the Kiwis

Coach Tim Sheens of Australia emphasizes that the selection of Todd Carney and Darius Boyd for the upcoming Four Nations rugby league encounter against New Zealand is based on their current form, rather than solely aimed at resting captain Darren Lockyer and Billy Slater.

Boyd and Carney take the places of Lockyer and Slater at five-eighth and fullback, respectively, contributing to a total of seven alterations made to the Kangaroos lineup facing the Kiwis at Auckland’s Eden Park.

Making their Kangaroos Test debuts against New Zealand are Todd Carney, Chris Lawrence, Matt Scott, and Dean Young.

Kangaroos Team

Darius Boyd, Brett Morris, Brent Tate, Chris Lawrence, Lote Tuqiri, Todd Carney, Cooper Cronk, Matt Scott, Cameron Smith (capt), Dave Shillington, Greg Bird, Sam Thaiday, Paul Gallen.
Interchange: Dean Young, Petero Civoniceva, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Robbie Farah, Kurt Gidley.

Sheens articulated that the choices of Boyd and Carney were rooted in merit and not merely because the Eden Park game is inconsequential, as the two undefeated teams are destined to face off again in the final in Brisbane.

“Billy is dealing with a shoulder injury that he’s been managing, and Darren has endured some tough hits; it’s well-documented that he faced significant injury challenges toward the end of the season,” Sheens noted.

“Darren is capable of playing if necessary, but I am very confident about these two lads joining the squad.

“The debate mainly circles around positions six and one; however, it’s clear that Carney and Boyd have consistently outperformed their peers throughout the year, and I believe giving these two a chance doesn’t compromise our strength.

“That’s the rationale behind their inclusion in the team.”

Scott from North Queensland Cowboys steps up to the starting lineup, while veteran Petero Civoniceva shifts to the bench. Additionally, Wests Tigers centre Lawrence fills in for Willie Tonga, and St George Illawarra hooker Young secures a spot on the bench.

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