{
  "id": 1624920,
  "title": "Why Tallis Duncan could be the answer for Australia's World Cup shortage",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/18/why-tallis-duncan-could-be-the-answer-for-australias-world-cup",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-18T03:48:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News",
    "slug": "abc-news",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-18/tallis-duncan-world-cup-selection-australia/107049958"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Tallis Duncan, the young backline player from South Sydney, could hold the key to solving Australia's second-row shortage for the upcoming World Cup. Only Liam Martin is a guaranteed selection for the squad, while Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Haumole Olakauatu, Nikora, and Angus Crichton face uncertain futures due to injuries or impending moves. Duncan, at 24 years old, has been a consistent performer for South Sydney, excelling at both second row and centre. His standout performance against Canterbury, where he scored a try, threw the final pass, and ran for 182 meters in 23 carries, highlights his impressive skills. The Rabbitohs' recent form, coupled with Duncan's versatility and growing maturity under the guidance of experienced players like Jack Wighton and Latrell Mitchell, makes him a strong contender to earn a place in Australia's World Cup squad.",
  "summary": "Australia are facing a shortage of backrowers for this year's Rugby League World Cup but South Sydney tyro Tallis Duncan could prove to be the answer.",
  "key_points": [
    "Tallis Duncan could solve Australia's second-row shortage for World Cup.",
    "Only Liam Martin guaranteed selection, others face uncertain futures.",
    "24-year-old Duncan excels at second row and centre, scored try in recent game."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Tallis Duncan's versatility and consistent performance make him a strong contender to fill Australia's second-row shortage for the World Cup, bolstering the squad's options.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "ABC News AU",
        "title": "Why Tallis Duncan could be the answer for Australia's World Cup shortage",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/18/why-tallis-duncan-could-be-the-answer-for-australias-world-cup-1626142",
        "published": "2026-08-18T03:48:20.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}