Why are Kangaroos stars still riding the bench?

Kangaroos coach, Mal Meninga has made the surprising call to keep the same line-up for round two of the Pacific Championship, leading to questions as to whether star players on the bench will ever see the field.

The decision to maintain the same line up in the upcoming game against New Zealand means Ben Hunt, Lindsey Smith, Bradman Best and Reece Robson will ride the bench once again.

Former Kangaroo, Corey Parker was shocked by Meninga’s decision and questions whether these players will step on the field at all during this tournament.

“They may go through this whole tournament and never play for Australia which is strange,” Parker said on SENQ.

“If they don't get any injuries, they may go with the same side.”

Parker reflects on the selected players suggesting the strange choice to select both Robson and Hunt who play predominantly hookers, with Harry Grant as the assumed choice to remain in that position.

Despite the 18-0 victory against Tonga in round 1, Parker expressed that the Australian side had many offensive issues, questioning if the same line up is the way to take on the New Zealand side.

However, hope for the Kangaroos lies in the numerous challenges being faced by the Kiwis.

Following a 30-0 victory over Australia in the 2023 Pacific Championship final, New Zealand should be the favourites, however laced with injuries and positional changes, the side appears “underdone”.

The Kiwis side will see many debuts as well as the return of retiree Shaun Johnson to replace injured players including Jerohme Hughes and Dylan brown.

“The New Zealand side has certainly got its challenges,” he added.

“This is well and truly a redemption game.”

“When you look at it on paper, Australia should win. They go in as heavy favourites.”

If Australia defeats New Zealand on Sunday, they will advance to the finals.

Parker suggests shifting the team around if that were the case, however given the decision for round two is unsure Meninga will be likely to make any changes.

The Kangaroos will take on the Kiwis on Sunday the 27th October in Christchurch.