Yeo says Australia’s combinations improving ahead of World Cup final
The Kangaroos captain will play alongside Reece Walsh, Cameron Munster, Tom Dearden and Harry Grant for just the third time this tournament against New Zealand.
Australia captain Isaah Yeo says the Kangaroos have strengthened their combinations during the World Cup campaign but are still seeking their best performance before facing New Zealand at Suncorp Stadium in the final.
The 32-year-old lock will combine with the starting spine of Reece Walsh, Cameron Munster, Tom Dearden and Harry Grant for their third appearance together at the tournament. Australia beat Cook Islands 66-6 before defeating Samoa 44-12 in the semi-final.
Yeo said the representative group had needed to build an understanding quickly, unlike his long-established combinations at Penrith. He said identifying teammates’ strengths and reviewing performances had helped Australia improve, with much of that work coming together against Samoa.
The Kangaroos remain unbeaten in Tests since New Zealand defeated them 30-0 in the 2023 Pacific Championships final. Yeo played in that loss but said revenge was not his motivation, pointing to changes in the squad and coaching staff, along with subsequent Pacific Championships and Ashes wins.
Yeo also said he expected this to be his final World Cup, doubting he would return in 2030 when he would be 36 or 37. He said he was focused on the present and grateful for the opportunity to captain Australia.
