Dearden picked ahead of Walker as Kangaroos change halves again
Reece Walsh returns at fullback against the Cook Islands, while Ethan Strange could make his Test debut from the bench.
Tom Dearden will partner Cameron Munster in Australia's halves against the Cook Islands at the Rugby League World Cup, with coach Kevin Walters leaving Sam Walker out. The selection gives the Kangaroos their third halves pairing of the tournament.
Walters has also recalled Reece Walsh at fullback, moving James Tedesco to the bench after the win over Fiji. Captain Isaah Yeo and Liam Martin return after missing Australia's previous match.
Patrick Carrigan and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui move into starting positions at prop, while Harry Grant returns at hooker. Ethan Strange has been selected on the bench and could make his Test debut. David Fifita and Blayke Brailey are out of the squad.
Australia have beaten New Zealand and Fiji in their opening two matches. Walters said he wanted a complete 80-minute performance against the Cook Islands, with the team concentrating on its own game as it prepares for the tournament's knockout stage.
